Frequently Asked Questions
Service Overview
What services do you offer?
We provide ADHD assessments, diagnosis, medication management, behavioural support, and ongoing care for children, adolescents, and adults, all via telehealth.
What ages do you see?
We work with children and adolescents aged 7 to 17 years, and adults from aged 18.
Do you diagnose ADHD only, or other conditions too?
While diagnosing ADHD is our primary focus, our doctors are very careful to look at all options and exclude all other possibilities. Whilst we do not specialise in conditions such as Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Dyslexia, which frequently co-exist with ADHD, our doctors will evaluate all of these as an essential part of our comprehensive assessment. A high percentage of people with ADHD also have co-existing conditions, we consider all of these as part of the overall assessment.
Can ADHD be managed entirely virtually?
In most cases, yes. However, if further in-person testing or support is required beyond what telehealth can provide, we will advise you and arrange appropriate referrals.
Getting Started
Do I need a GP referral?
No, for the General Practitioner model of care.
Yes, for the psychiatrist or paediatrician model of care.
How do I get started?
Phone us on 02 7234 1312. Our team will guide you through the intake process, which may include completing the required documentation.
How do virtual appointments work?
Appointments are conducted through a secure, confidential video platform (Coviu). Clients will receive an emailed link prior to the consultation and can join from home, school, work, or any private location.
What technology do I need for telehealth?
You will need a stable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone (e.g., tablet, laptop, or desktop computer), and a private, quiet space for the consultation. Please ensure you are not in a car during your appointment.
Assessment & Diagnosis
How is ADHD diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a thorough review of medical and developmental history, behavior questionnaires (e.g. completed by parents, teachers, colleagues, or the individual), interviews, and additional psychological assessments.
ADHD online screening tools:
1) Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRSv1.1) – Psychology Tools
2) Take the ASRS ADHD Assessment Online (2026)
Remember that the screening tool is just one step in the assessment process. Your healthcare provider will consider these results alongside other factors when making a diagnosis.
Medication Management
Will I/my child be prescribed medication?
Medication may be discussed if clinically appropriate. However, it is not the only management option, and the decision is made collaboratively between the doctor, the patient (and family, where appropriate). If your already receiving medication management it is important to ensure you line your appointments up for when your last repeat is dispensed to avoid any further prescribing fee’s.
How do you manage prescriptions remotely?
Prescriptions are sent electronically to your nominated email or phone number.
What if there is a shortage for my medication treatment?
There is a significant and long-term shortage of medications like Ritalin, Concerta, and Ritalin LA till the end of 2025. This is affecting people with ADHD and their families. We understand that this is stressful and are working to find the best solutions.
Communication between you, your pharmacist, and us is key, and we’ll keep you updated. In the meantime, make sure you’re also using other non-medical strategies to help manage symptoms.
Check how much medication you have left and talk to your pharmacist about availability. Your pharmacist may be able to consider options for compounding the Ritalin products.
It’s very likely you will need to switch medications in the coming months, so start planning ahead. The most available alternatives are Vyvanse and Dexamfetamine. If you or your child have taken these before and had a negative reaction, we’ll need to look at other options. Please gather this information before reaching out to the clinic.
Appointments are required for change in medication or for script renewal unless there has been a pre-existing arrangement in place.
What if I forget to get a script in my appointment?
Prescriptions outside of an appointment incur in a fee.
Do you provide interstate prescribing?
Yes, on case by case basis.
When can the next prescription be issued?
Prescriptions cannot be issued until your last repeat has been fully dispensed.
How to check when your next repeat is due
If you are unsure when your next repeat is due, you can check this by:
- Reviewing your electronic prescription token, which shows how many repeats remain;
- Checking the Active Script List through your myGov account (Medicare → My Health Record); or
- Asking your regular pharmacy, who can confirm the date your last supply was dispensed and when
your next dispense will be eligible.
Care Coordination
Can you liaise with my child’s school or my workplace?
Yes. With your consent, we can collaborate with schools to support your child’s learning and behavioral needs, or with workplaces to support reasonable adjustments for adults. Depending on time required, there might be cost incurred.
Medication Shortage
1) Comprehensive clinical guidance on managing patient treatment during the methylphenidate shortages are now available. These resources were developed by the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA) and can be accessed here: ADHD Medication Shortage Clinical Guidance for Healthcare Professionals.
2) Patient resources developed by the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA), for utilisation during the ADHD medication shortages are accessible here: Free Resources for Families, Educators, & Adults Navigating ADHD Medication Shortages.
Fees & Rebates
Can we get new script in between review appointments?
Yes. Script request outside of review appointment will incur charges to pay for the doctor’s time. Script fee is $50.
Can the doctor write letters to schools, employers and other purposes to provide information about my ADHD management plan?
Yes. Letter request will incur charges to pay for the doctor’s time. Letters writing is charged $80 for 10 minute increments.
Are Medicare rebates available?
No, Medicare rebates are no longer available for this service under a general practitioner model. However, rebates are still available if you are seeing a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
Do you accept private health insurance?
There are no Medicare item codes associated with a general practitioner care model. We recommend checking with your private health insurance provider regarding any potential reimbursements available under your cover.
Ongoing Care
What happens after the initial assessment?
After the initial assessment, you will receive a management plan. Follow-up appointments will then be scheduled based on your individual needs.
How often will I/my child need follow-up appointments?
This varies depending on the treatment plan. More frequent reviews may be needed initially, particularly if starting or adjusting medication.
Do your specialists provide prescribing authority to external practitioners?
No. Our specialists do not provide authorisation to prescribe medications to practitioners outside of ADHD Lifespan Clinic. All prescribing and monitoring is managed within the clinic to ensure patient safety, compliance with regulations, and continuity of care.
Appointments
What is the cancellation policy?
We require at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations. Late arrivals may incur a fee.
Can both parents attend the appointment?
Yes. We encourage both parents or guardians to attend whenever possible, even from separate locations via telehealth.
How do I pay for appointments?
Payments are made electronically prior to each appointment. We can take payment over the phone or send a secure payment link for you to pay at the comfort of your own home.
Emergencies
What if I/my child needs urgent help?
Our service is not an emergency service. If urgent assistance is needed, please contact your GP, call 000, or attend your nearest hospital emergency department.
