Shared Care Arrangements: Working with Your GP After Private ADHD Diagnosis
Getting a private ADHD diagnosis is often just the first step. For many people, the real challenge begins when trying to establish ongoing care that's both effective and affordable. This is where shared care arrangements become crucial.
What Is Shared Care?
Shared care is an arrangement where your GP takes over prescribing and monitoring your ADHD medication after you've received a private diagnosis and initial treatment plan. Instead of paying £200-400 per month for private prescriptions, you'll pay standard NHS prescription charges (currently £9.90 per item in England, or free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland).
The private specialist provides the diagnosis, initial medication titration, and ongoing clinical guidance, while your GP handles the day-to-day prescribing and basic monitoring. This can reduce your monthly medication costs by over 90%.
How Shared Care Works
Initial Phase:
Private specialist conducts comprehensive assessment
Diagnosis confirmed and treatment plan established
Medication titration completed (usually 2-4 appointments)
Detailed shared care protocol sent to your GP
Ongoing Care:
GP prescribes medication based on specialist's recommendations
Regular monitoring through blood tests and reviews
Periodic check-ins with private specialist (every 6-12 months)
GP can adjust doses within agreed parameters
Getting Your GP to Agree
Many GPs are initially hesitant about shared care arrangements. Here's how to approach the conversation:
Before the appointment:
Research your GP practice's shared care policy
Prepare a summary of your ADHD symptoms and their impact
Gather any relevant medical history
During the appointment:
Explain the financial necessity of shared care
Emphasize that the private specialist will provide full clinical guidance
Offer to provide educational resources about ADHD in adults
Ask about their specific concerns and address them directly
Key points to mention:
NICE guidelines support shared care for ADHD
The private specialist remains clinically responsible
Clear protocols will be provided for monitoring and safety
You're committed to regular monitoring appointments
Choosing the Right Private Provider
Not all private ADHD services are equally effective at establishing shared care. Look for:
Established shared care protocols: Providers with standardized, comprehensive protocols
Good GP relationships: Services with a track record of successful shared care arrangements
Clear communication: Detailed letters and ongoing support for your GP
Realistic expectations: Honest about which medications and situations work best for shared care
Common Challenges and Solutions
GP refuses shared care:
Ask for the refusal in writing with specific reasons
Consider changing GP practices
Seek support from local ADHD charities
Contact your local Clinical Commissioning Group
Medication restrictions:
Some GPs only agree to prescribe certain medications
Licensed medications (methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine) are more likely to be accepted
Unlicensed medications may require continued private prescribing
Monitoring requirements:
Regular blood pressure and heart rate checks
Annual blood tests for some medications
Weight monitoring, especially important for children and young adults
Mental health monitoring for mood changes
Making Shared Care Work Long-term
Maintain good relationships:
Keep all monitoring appointments
Communicate any concerns promptly
Follow the agreed treatment protocol
Be understanding of your GP's position
Stay organized:
Keep records of all appointments and communications
Track medication effects and side effects
Maintain contact with your private specialist
Know your shared care protocol details
The Financial Reality
Private-only costs:
Monthly prescriptions: £200-400
Regular appointments: £150-300 every 3-6 months
Annual cost: £3,000-5,000+
Shared care costs:
Monthly prescriptions: £9.90-19.80 (or free in some areas)
Private specialist reviews: £150-300 every 6-12 months
Annual cost: £300-800
This dramatic cost reduction makes long-term ADHD treatment financially sustainable for most people.
Starting Your Journey
If you're considering private ADHD assessment, research shared care options from the beginning. Many people find that the initial investment in private assessment and titration pays for itself within 6-12 months through reduced ongoing costs.
The key is choosing a provider who understands the shared care process and has experience working with GPs in your area. Don't let cost concerns prevent you from accessing the assessment and treatment you need.
Ready to explore your options? Start with a private assessment from a provider experienced in shared care arrangements. Your future self will thank you for taking this important step toward better ADHD management.
