The Health and Social Security Scrutiny panel is calling for nurses to be trained in issuing ADHD medication to bring down waiting lists.

Currently, only one specialist consultant psychiatrist can diagnose islanders with ADHD and issue medication.

In March, the panel heard that this meant the island's only assessor ends up spending ‘an extraordinary amount of their time just doing repeat prescriptions', meanwhile the waiting time for adults to be assessed is around 3.5 years. 

Following this, Chair of the Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel Deputy Louise Doublet invited islanders to share their thoughts on how medication for the neurological condition is prescribed in Jersey.

The consultation revealed 'poor communication from the health department regarding an individual's position and the status of the waiting list' and that many people are struggling with their wellbeing while waiting to be assessed.

Deputy Louise Doublet is calling on the Health Minister to train nurses in issuing the medication to alleviate pressure on the one consultant psychiatrist that can prescribe the drugs, freeing them up to see more patients on the waiting list.

The panel is also recommending that a clinic is set up where ADHD patients can collect their medication and seek advice. 

Deputy Louise Doublet speaking in the States Assembly

Deputy Louise Doublet said:

"It is clear to the Panel that people who have shared their experiences with us feel let down by the current system.

"They are frustrated with the long wait for a diagnosis and lack of communication regarding not only that, but the impact the global shortage of ADHD medication could have on them.

"While there is little that Jersey can do to improve the situation regarding the shortage, we can remove some of the other obstacles people are facing.

"Allowing more staff to issue repeat prescriptions is vital to this and is something that can be delivered within the resources the department has and within a reasonable amount of time and would dramatically improve people’s experiences.

"It would also give the Minister time to work with the Primary Care Board on the proposed Shared Care Pathway, which would allow GPs to prescribe ADHD medication, and investigate what other options there are for other secondary care medical staff to provide support in this area."

Health Minster Tom Binet

Health Minister Tom Binet has released a statement in response: 

“I am currently reviewing the recommendations which were outlined in the Scrutiny Review, and I am pleased to say that several of the recommendations reflect work which is currently in progress.

"As in other jurisdictions, waiting lists remain high for ADHD assessment.

"However, I’d like to reassure Islanders that the Adult Mental Health ADHD Service continues to explore options to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the current service and is also looking to work in partnership with other providers to try to alleviate the waiting list and treatment pressures.”