12 Mar 12-Month Prescriptions and ADHD Assessments & Prescribing

12-Month Prescriptions (Starting Early 2026)

Starting in early 2026, some prescriptions may be valid for up to 12 months.

• Eligibility Criteria: * Condition and medication dose must be stable.
  • No regular monitoring (like blood tests or blood pressure checks) is required.
  • Agreement to a dedicated annual in-person review.
• Exclusions: Certain medications are not eligible for 12-month intervals, including controlled medicines (e.g., opioids, stimulants), “as needed” medicines, or if your dose changed in the last 6 months.+1
• Pharmacy Collection: Even with a 12-month prescription, medication is still collected in three-month supplies.
• Final Authority: The General Practitioner (GP) makes the final decision on whether a 12-month prescription is safe and appropriate.

ADHD Assessments & Prescribing

Effective February 1st, 2026, trained GPs can diagnose and treat ADHD in adults (18+), though specific practice policies apply.

• Merivale Medical Practice Policy: * The practice is not offering diagnostic ADHD assessments at this time.+1
  • If you require a referral for an assessment, you must book a dedicated appointment to discuss it.
• Stimulant Medication:
  • Ongoing prescribing of stimulants may be considered by your GP once a specialist confirms the diagnosis and the medication plan is stable.+1
  • Prescribing is at the GP’s discretion based on clinical factors.
  • Regular in-person GP appointments are required for monitoring.
• Children (Under 18):
  • GPs cannot diagnose ADHD or initiate stimulant medication for those under 18.
  • A dedicated appointment is required to discuss referrals for this age group.