Current status: Answered by Maree Todd on 31 August 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what action it plans to take in response to recommendations 29 to 32 of the Session 6 Health, Social Care and Sport Committee's report, ADHD and autism pathways and support, particularly in relation to making it easier for those with a private diagnosis to receive timely, ongoing ADHD treatment on the NHS.
Improving access to support for people with neurodevelopmental support needs is a priority for this Government.
The Scottish Government is aware that some people who have received a private diagnosis of ADHD experience difficulties accessing medication through the NHS. Shared care was a key issue discussed at the second neurodevelopment summit convened by the Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing and during the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee inquiry. The outcomes of these discussions will inform ongoing work to improve neurodevelopmental support.
We are committed to working with partners to explore options for shared care arrangements and to consider approaches that are proportionate, effective and meet the needs of both patients and clinicians. Guidance on prescribing ADHD medication to adults following a private-sector diagnosis in Scotland was also published by NAIT in April 2022.
Medication is one form of support for people with an ADHD diagnosis. Many people may also benefit from support available through community and education settings, which can be accessed on the basis of need and do not depend on a formal diagnosis.