The diagnosis of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder in Australian children: Current paediatric practice and parent perspective. (April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Efron, Daryl; Sciberras, Emma; Hiscock, Harriet; Jongeling, Brad; Lycett, Kate; Bisset, Matthew; Smith, Grant
• Is Part Of: Journal of paediatrics and child health. Volume 52:Number 4(2016:Apr.)
• Page Start: 410
• Page End: 416
• Publication Date: 2016-04
• Subjects: ADHD -- behavioural medicine -- guidline adherence -- paediatrics -- quality of health care; Children -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; 618.92
• DOI: 10.1111/jpc.13091
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1034-4810

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: In a sample of newly diagnosed children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the aims were to examine (1) paediatrician assessment and management practices; (2) previous assessments and interventions; (3) correspondence between parent‐report and paediatrician identification of comorbidities; and (4) parent agreement with diagnosis of ADHD. Methods: Design : cross‐sectional, multi‐site practice audit with questionnaires completed by paediatricians and parents at the point of ADHD diagnosis. Setting : private/public paediatric practices in Western Australia and Victoria, Australia. Main outcome measures : paediatricians: elements of assessment and management were indicated on a study‐designed data form. Parents: ADHD symptoms and comorbidities were measured using the Conners 3 ADHD Index and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, respectively. Sleep problems, previous assessments and interventions, and agreement with ADHD diagnosis were measured by questionnaire. Results: Twenty‐four paediatricians participated, providing data on 137 patients (77% men, mean age 8.1 years). Parent and teacher questionnaires were used in 88% and 85% of assessments, respectively. Medication was prescribed in 75% of cases. Comorbidities were commonly diagnosed (70%); however, the proportion of patients identified by paediatricians with internalising problems (18%), externalising problems (15%) and sleep problems (4%) was less than by parent report (51%, 66% and 39%). One in seven parents did not agree with the diagnosis of ADHD. Conclusions: Australian paediatric practice in relation to ADHD assessment is generally consistent with best practice guidelines; however, improvements are needed in relation to the routine use of questionnaires and the identification of comorbidities. A proportion of parents do not agree with the diagnosis of ADHD made by their paediatrician.