NHS Trust first in the country to use pioneering ADHD tool

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South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, in partnership with NHS Wakefield Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has become the first NHS organisation in the country to pilot a new tool that helps diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder which causes a certain pattern of behaviour in an individual. Symptoms include finding it difficult to concentrate, hyperactivity and impulsiveness.

The QbTest is a computer based assessment tool that examines whether an individual is showing symptoms of ADHD. It combines a series of computer-based tasks with a motion tracking camera that monitors an individual’s response to tasks. Once the tasks have been completed the QbTest provides instant feedback to professionals.

Dr Marios Adamou, consultant psychiatrist at the Trust said, “We’re delighted to be the first NHS organisation to use the QbTest to screen adults for ADHD. The speed of the tool is a real asset and will allow us to more efficiently screen patients, see more people and ultimately shorten waiting lists.

The tool also allows people to see how far they have come once they have started receiving treatment which is a real boost to their self-esteem. It also lets us see how they have responded to treatment and we can adjust their medication or therapy accordingly.”

Local GP and mental health lead for NHS Wakefield CCG, Dr Clive Harries said, “Wakefield has led the country in services for adults with ADHD, but we always knew that there was more to do. That’s why we have commissioned South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust to use the QbTest.

“ADHD can make life difficult for sufferers and for their families and is often thought of as a children’s condition. We hope that this test will make a real difference to the lives of adults – and if it is successful we could also make it available for children in school who may have ADHD.”

NHS Trust first in the country to use pioneering ADHD tool

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