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How does ADHD fit into the “Other Health Impairment” category in IEPs? 

PostedSeptember 28, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 28, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), ADHD falls within the Other Health Impairment classification. This category includes conditions that limit a student’s strength, energy, or alertness, particularly when it affects their ability to access the curriculum. ADHD or other health impairment eligibility is based on how symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity interfere with learning. 

This classification provides a legal route for students with ADHD to receive special education services through an Individualised Education Programme (IEP), even if their academic performance isn’t drastically below grade level. What matters is whether their condition limits their ability to participate in or benefit from general education. 

Complete your ADHD assessment

What IDEA Says About ADHD and IEPs 

Here’s how IDEA classifications, special education law, and eligibility categories work for ADHD: 

Recognised diagnosis  

ADHD is explicitly listed under “Other Health Impairment” in IDEA, making it a valid basis for IEP consideration. 

Educational impact required  

The diagnosis must be paired with documented evidence that ADHD limits attention, task completion, or classroom participation in a way that affects academic progress. 

Supports must be necessary  

The student must need specialised instruction or related services that cannot be provided through standard teaching or a 504 Plan. 

In conclusion, this pathway ensures that students who fall in the category of ADHD or other health impairment whose ADHD symptoms significantly disrupt learning receive structured, legal support through a tailored education plan. Understanding your child’s legal pathway to support is the first step to unlocking the education they deserve. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Classroom accommodations for ADHD.

Complete your ADHD assessment
Avery Lombardi, MSc, author for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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