Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 3-5% of the global population
While diagnosis is an important first step to accessing proper care
ADHD often goes undiagnosed or undertreated, including in the UK
To understand why that might be, researchers interviewed general practitioners (GPs) and patients across the country
The team discovered several barriers, including the sheer complexity of pathways to care
lack of services
limited GP recognition and knowledge of ADHD
and communication difficulties among GPs and patients
The findings suggest that GPs might be ill equipped to identify and manage ADHD in primary care
And they highlight areas of improvement specific to the UK healthcare system
For their part, the team has devised an educational resource to enhance understanding of ADHD, accessible at www.adhdinfo.org.uk
Although limited to the UK, the findings overlap with those from countries like the US and Australia
pointing to ways to improve ADHD awareness and care around the globe
French et al. "Awareness of ADHD in primary care: stakeholder perspectives."