ADHD Diagnosis in Adults: When to Refer to a Specialist

Khoo, Nicholas Q

Item

ADHD Diagnosis in Adults: When to Refer to a Specialist

Khoo, Nicholas Q

License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Abstract

Androscoggin County, Maine, faces a critical shortage in behavioral health care access. With a ratio of one primary care physician per 855 patients and one psychiatrist per 11,625, the need for accessible mental health services is urgent. The recent closure of Community Clinical Services (CCS) at St. Mary’s Hospital—one of the region’s primary psychiatric care providers—has further strained the system. Remaining facilities such as Central Maine Medical Center, Sweetser, and Spurwink are now experiencing increased demand, often resulting in months-long wait times for appointments. A significant portion of behavioral health referrals in the area are for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a condition that can be diagnosed by a patient’s primary care provider. However, providers may lack confidence in making this diagnosis independently, contributing to unnecessary specialist referrals and delays in care. To address this gap, a pocket-sized reference booklet was developed to support providers in diagnosing ADHD. The booklet outlines the diagnostic process and includes key questions to help differentiate ADHD from other conditions with overlapping symptoms. The goal is to distribute this resource to clinics throughout Lewiston and greater Androscoggin County, empowering providers to make timely, accurate diagnoses and ultimately improving access to behavioral health care in the region.