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NSW Rural GPs prepare for ADHD reforms with RDN Masterclass
01st December 2025
By Jessica Rostas
Last week, GPs gathered as part of Rural Health Month for a masterclass titled Preparing for ADHD Reforms. Developed by Rural Doctors Network (RDN) in response to the ADHD prescribing reforms in NSW, the masterclass has been designed to help rural and remote GPs address these changes with confidence. As one of 4 ADHD masterclasses created by RDN in response to these reforms, the event offered rural and remote GPs a valuable opportunity to collaborate and foster peer support.
The session provided current information on reform implementation and included case-based training for clinical decision-making, with content tailored to rural and remote contexts. It also addressed practical aspects of diagnosing and managing ADHD in general practice and highlighted best practices for prescribing and optimising medication for GPs and their patients.
Since September, GPs in NSW have had an expanded scope of practice. Under the new model, GPs that have completed additional training and been authorised by NSW Health can continue prescriptions for children and adults on stable ADHD medications without needing a formal agreement with a non-GP specialist. In addition, a smaller group of specially trained GPs will be authorised to diagnose and initiate treatment where appropriate.
"With recent reforms expanding the role of GPs in ADHD care, it's critical that rural practitioners have access to practical, high-quality training," said Mike Edwards, COO at RDN. "Our masterclasses are designed to equip GPs with the skills and confidence to manage ADHD across the lifespan, while navigating the evolving clinical and regulatory landscape."
The in-person format, designed specifically for rural-practicing GPs, allows time for extended case discussions, questions, individual interactions during breaks, and networking with colleagues.
“This ADHD Masterclass was fantastic! I appreciated the small group format and the chance to connect with fellow GPs to share my insights and obtain actionable feedback,” said masterclass participant Dr Mary Elsley, a GP/VMO from Inverell, NSW.
“It was a great way to consolidate the online learning I’ve done in this space and network with colleagues.”
Associate Professor John Kramer, a GP with over 30 years' experience in ADHD management and advocacy, has been an Other Designated Prescriber (ODP) for three decades and is widely respected for his work in medical education. He was one of several experienced facilitators at this week's master class.
"These face-to-face master classes provide time for case discussions, peer networking, and practical problem-solving," said John.
"For rural GPs, this format reduces isolation, fosters collaboration, and builds confidence in delivering ADHD care locally."
"Since May, nearly 100 attendees have attended our ADHD masterclasses, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive," said Lindsey Eifler, Conference and Events Manager, RDN.
"Participants value the practical approach and the opportunity to connect with colleagues, which strengthens both clinical skills and professional support networks in rural communities."
The reforms are aimed at improving access to ADHD care, particularly in rural areas.
In a statement this week, Minister for Health, Ryan Park said that the reforms allow patients to get the care they need, often closer to home and at a reasonable cost.
“I’m so pleased to see such positive feedback from the more than 560 GPs who’ve already completed this training and accreditation,” he said.
“Having 2,900 patients visit an accredited GP to get their script for their ADHD medication refilled, means 2,900 people avoiding the lengthy wait times and costs they used to encounter.”
NSW is the fourth state to expand GP scope for ADHD after QLD, SA and WA.
This event is part of Rural Health Month, which was conceived by RDN's Rural Health Pro as a way to celebrate the unique strengths and attributes of rural and remote healthcare in Australia.
Learn more about ADHD care in general practice here.
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