ADHD Diagnosis in Bomaderry
Many people spend years wondering why focus, planning and sitting still feel harder for them than for others. A parent may spot it first in a child’s school report. An adult may spot it at work, in a pile of tasks that never seems to shrink.
An ADHD diagnosis can help explain those patterns.
At Bomaderry Creek Health Centre, you may be able to begin with a GP. A psychiatrist or paediatrician appointment may not be the only way to start.
When It Might Be Time to Ask
Most people come in because something keeps getting in the way. You might recognise one of these:
- children whose teachers mention focus or restlessness
- teenagers who struggle to organise their schoolwork
- adults who find deadlines, paperwork or planning constantly overwhelming
- family members who have noticed these patterns and want to understand them
Asking does not commit you to anything, because your first visit is simply a conversation.
ADHD at Different Ages
ADHD starts in early childhood and relates to how the brain develops. ADHD in children often shows up at school or at home, as trouble focusing, restlessness or acting without thinking. Many children still have symptoms as adults.
Healthdirect notes that ADHD can also be first diagnosed in adulthood. So an adult ADHD diagnosis is possible, even if nobody raised the question in childhood.
How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis Through Your GP
If you are wondering how to get an ADHD diagnosis, the first step is a visit with your GP. From there, the process may move in three steps:
- You and your doctor talk about what you have noticed and how long it has been going on.
- Questionnaires and rating scales help your doctor see the full picture, and family or teachers may add their view.
- You return to hear what your doctor found.
Jot down examples before your visit, and bring old-school reports if you can.
What the Doctor Looks For
Doctors look at how symptoms affect daily life, not only how often they appear. Healthdirect explains that symptoms need to last more than 6 months. They also need to cause serious difficulty in at least 2 settings, such as school or home.
Your doctor also checks for other concerns, such as anxiety or poor sleep, that can look similar. However, not every assessment confirms ADHD. In some cases, your doctor may suggest seeing a psychologist or another specialist.
Meet Dr Hossam Selim
Dr Hossam Selim (AHPRA No. MED0002203641), one of our GPs, assesses and diagnoses ADHD in people aged 6 and over, from school-age children to adults. NSW Health says its reforms now allow GPs with additional training to take a greater role in ADHD care. This applies to people aged 6 and over.
Dr Selim has completed that training. To plan your visit, our reception team can tell you which days he is in.
What an ADHD Assessment Costs
Many people ask about ADHD assessment cost before they book. These are private consultations, so no Medicare rebate applies. Our reception team can explain the fees and how visits are arranged, so you know what to expect. Following assessment, ongoing care is available based on clinical suitability.
Looking for an ADHD GP Near Me in Bomaderry?
Searching for an ADHD GP near me? Our clinic is at Shop 1A, 320 Princes Highway, Bomaderry. We welcome patients from North Nowra, Nowra, Meroo Meadow, Terara and Cambewarra. You can also read about our doctors or medical consultations.
Start with a Conversation at Our Bomaderry Clinic
An ADHD diagnosis starts with a good conversation with a GP. The good thing is that there’s no need to consult a psychiatrist or paediatrician first to get assessed.
Our team at Bomaderry Creek Health Centre is happy to begin that conversation with you. For an ADHD diagnosis in or near Bomaderry, NSW, our practice is open Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm. Book a consultation to be assessed and guided by a GP.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Start the Process at Your Clinic?
Book an appointment and let reception know you would like to talk about ADHD. Our team can tell you which days Dr Selim is in. At your first visit, you talk through your concerns and history, and your doctor explains what comes next. It helps to bring any notes or school reports.
What Age Can My Child Be Assessed?
Dr Selim sees children from the age of 6. For younger children, our reception team can go through other options with you. At the first visit, your doctor will talk with you about whether an assessment suits your child and their situation.
Can Adults Be Assessed Too?
Yes. Dr Selim assesses adults as well as children. Many adults first ask about ADHD later in life, often after a child is assessed or after years of struggling with focus and planning. Your doctor will listen to your history and explain whether an assessment is the right step for you.
How do I book a vaccination appointment?
A GP visit may be a way to begin, rather than waiting for a psychiatrist or paediatrician appointment. If your situation is complex, your doctor may still suggest another specialist. They will explain which path suits you best, so you know what to expect.
Is There a Medicare Rebate for ADHD Assessments?
No. ADHD assessments here are private consultations, so no Medicare rebate is available. Our reception team can confirm current fees when you book, which helps you plan around any follow-up visits. If you would like to know what to expect before your first appointment, please ask when you call.
What Happens After the Assessment?
Your doctor will go through the findings and what they mean for you. Following the assessment, ongoing care is available based on clinical suitability. In some cases, a referral to a psychologist or another specialist may be the better next step.