Training and specialisation of psychiatrists in ADHD

Abstract

Objective To identify the level of training of Australian psychiatrists in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and to compare the number of psychiatrists specialising in ADHD versus other psychiatric conditions on the basis of the prevalence of conditions, by interrogating the RANZCP ‘Find a Psychiatrist’ database. Conclusion Fewer psychiatrists listed in the RANZCP database specialise in ADHD than in many other psychiatric conditions. Given that 5% of the Australian population suffers from ADHD, the condition can have significant adverse outcomes and is a common comorbidity with other psychiatric conditions, the RANZCP Training Program would be improved by requiring an in-depth knowledge of ADHD. Further training in ADHD would assist many practising psychiatrists.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder conundrum: Access to care and psychiatric training

“…Secondly, Ryan 1 pointed out that the RANZCP psychiatric training curriculum covers ADHD inadequately. Recognising this caveat, the ADHD Committee is working with the relevant RANZCP committees to update the training curriculum.…”

“…The commendable article by Ryan 1 is focused on issues pertinent to access to care and psychiatric training in relation to ADHD. We would like to comment on these issues on behalf of the RANZCP Bi-national ADHD Network Committee 2 (‘ADHD Committee’).…”