Evaluation of a new model for assessment and treatment of uncomplicated ADHD - effect, patient satisfaction and costs.

ABSTRACT

Aim: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common diagnosis within child- and adolescent psychiatry. Waiting lists and delayed care are major issues. The aim was to evaluate if standardized care (SC) for assessment and treatment of uncomplicated ADHD would reduce resource utilization and increase satisfaction with preserved improvement within the first year of treatment.Method: Patients 6-12 years with positive screen for uncomplicated ADHD at the brief child and family phone interview (BCFPI), a routine clinical procedure, were triaged to SC. The control group consisted of patients diagnosed with ADHD in 2014 and treated as usual. BCFPI factors at baseline and follow-up after one year and resource utilization were compared.Results: Patients improved in ADHD symptoms (Cohen's d = 0.78, p < 0.001), child function (Cohen's d = 0.80, p < 0.001) and in family situation (Cohen's d = 0.61, p < 0.001) without group differences. Parents of SC patients participated more often in psychoeducational groups (75.5 vs. 49.5%, p < 0.001). SC had shorter time to ADHD diagnosis (8.4 vs. 15.6 weeks, p = 0.01) and to medication (24.6 vs. 32.1 weeks, p = 0.003). SC families were more satisfied with the waiting time (p = 0.01), otherwise there were no differences in satisfaction between the groups. Families of SC patients had fewer visits (4.7 vs. 10.8, p < 0.001) but used the same number of phone calls (6.3 vs. 6.2, p = 0.71). Costs were 55% lower.Conclusions: A SC for ADHD can markedly reduce costs with preserved quality. As resources are limited, child psychiatry would benefit from standardization.