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Do General Practitioners Handle ADHD Assessments? 

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, in some cases, general practitioners can carry out an initial ADHD GP assessment. While GPs may not always make the final diagnosis, they often play a key role in identifying symptoms, offering support, and referring patients for further evaluation. The exact responsibilities can vary depending on the GP’s training and local healthcare guidelines. 

The GP ADHD role usually involves taking a full medical history, asking about your current symptoms, and checking for other possible explanations. If they suspect ADHD, they may begin a referral to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or specialist clinic. In certain areas or under shared care agreements, some GPs may also take part in ongoing treatment once a diagnosis is confirmed. 

How It Helps to Start in Primary Care 

Beginning with a primary care ADHD conversation helps set the foundation for timely and appropriate support. 

Initial Screening 

GPs can perform an early ADHD GP assessment by listening to your concerns and using symptom checklists to decide if further evaluation is needed. 

Referrals and Coordination 

If more specialist input is required, your GP will coordinate a referral and ensure all necessary background is passed along. 

Ongoing Support 

Post-diagnosis, GPs may assist with prescriptions or check-ins under shared care agreements. 

Understanding the GP ADHD role can give you confidence that you’re starting in the right place, even if further testing is needed later. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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.