Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
1216. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Health if she will consider extending the medical card scheme to cover ADHD assessments for adults given the cost of such assessments can be a barrier for adults; if she will ensure that adults with ADHD are diagnosed correctly and therefore not prevented from accessing supports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30322/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraADHD has long been recognised as one of the most common psychiatric disorders in children and it is now known to persist into adulthood. Core symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. This National Clinical Programme is based on multi-disciplinary community teams to diagnose and treat ADHD in adults. As Minister, I'm proud to have launched the Model of Care for Adult ADHD and to have resourced the establishment of the teams envisioned by the Model of Care. The ADHD Programme is funded with total funding of over €5 million on a recurring annual basis. As a result, there are 11 community based teams funded, with 8 teams are currently operational with the remaining teams in recruitment listed below. Funding was secured by myself as Minister in Budget 2025 to facilitate the rolling out of the total number of ADHD teams envisaged in the Model of Care.
Access to the Adult ADHD teams is based on clinical need and services, including diagnosis, are provided free of charge.
Operational ADHD Teams.
• Sligo/Leitrim/Donegal.
• South Dublin/ Wicklow.
• Limerick/Clare/North Tipperary.
• Cork.
• Kerry/West Cork.
• South- West Dublin.
• Midlands/Kildare/West Wicklow.
• Cavan/Monaghan/Louth Meath.
Community based teams in recruitment.
• Waterford/Wexford/Kilkenny/Carlow/South Tipperary.
• North Dublin and County.
• Galway/Roscommon/Mayo.
In relation to the additional specific information requested, as this is an operational matter, I have referred it to the HSE for direct reply to you.
