What is Shared Care and Why Is It Important?
Shared care is a collaborative arrangement between private ADHD specialists and NHS GPs. After we have optimised a particular treatment regime, your GP may be able to continue managing your prescriptions through the NHS. With shared care, the cost can reduce to standard NHS prescription charges, which can make ongoing treatment much more affordable over time.
If shared care is important to you, you should check with your GP before starting treatment. There is no national policy on shared care for ADHD treatment, and decisions are made locally by individual GP practices and healthcare boards. Final approval always rests with your GP. This means shared care may be possible, but it cannot be guaranteed.
Unfortunately, securing shared care is not always straightforward. Many private clinics find that some GPs will not agree to these arrangements, which can leave patients covering the ongoing cost of private prescriptions themselves. This is one reason why it is important to think about shared care early in your treatment journey.
Our medication pathway is managed by consultant psychiatrists, and we work carefully to support shared care requests where appropriate. More than half of our shared care agreements are accepted by NHS GPs, but each decision is made locally and remains at the discretion of your GP. This is why we always encourage patients to consider the position of their own GP practice from the outset.
Why Our Approach Saves You Money in the Long Run
When choosing an ADHD clinic, it is natural to look at upfront costs. Some clinics may appear more affordable at first glance, offering lower-cost assessments. However, if shared care is not available later on, patients may need to continue paying for private prescriptions and medication reviews for longer than expected.
At ADHD Health Clinic, while our initial fees may be slightly higher than some competitors, our approach is designed to support long-term affordability as well as high-quality care. Where shared care is agreed, patients may be able to move to NHS prescribing, which can significantly reduce ongoing medication costs.
In addition to financial savings, shared care can also support continuity of care. By involving your GP in prescription management where appropriate, patients may benefit from a more joined-up healthcare experience. For many people, this brings reassurance, stability and a clearer long-term pathway for treatment. This is one of the reasons shared care remains an important part of the discussion around ADHD treatment.
How We Support Your Shared Care Journey
At ADHD Health Clinic, we see shared care as more than a financial benefit. It is an important part of making treatment sustainable and practical for many patients. By working closely with your GP where appropriate, we aim to support a treatment plan that remains accessible over time.
We guide our patients through each stage of the process. From diagnosis to treatment planning and medication stabilisation, we aim to make the pathway clear, transparent and supportive. We work proactively with GPs to support shared care requests where appropriate, while being clear that approval is always made by the individual GP or GP practice.
As Dr. Mashru explains:
“Shared Care agreements provide a sustainable way for patients to access ADHD treatment. It’s not just about the diagnosis but ensuring that the treatment remains affordable and integrated within the NHS system. This is why we place such a strong emphasis on establishing Shared Care with GPs.”
Our commitment does not end there. We also equip our patients with the knowledge and information they need to feel confident throughout their treatment journey. Whether it is answering questions about the shared care process or helping patients understand the practical steps involved, we are here to help.
Why Choose ADHD Health Clinic?
When you choose ADHD Health Clinic, you are choosing a provider that prioritises your long-term wellbeing. Our focus is on delivering a diagnosis and creating a comprehensive treatment plan that works for you now and in the future.
Shared care remains an important part of that approach. By choosing us, you are investing in a service that combines clinical expertise with practical support to help make treatment effective, affordable and sustainable wherever possible.
We invite you to book an ADHD assessment with us and experience the difference for yourself. Together, we can help you navigate your ADHD journey with confidence, knowing that you’re supported by a team that truly understands your needs.
