An online test that may diagnose children and young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) faster has been recommended for use by the NHS.
QbTest, a computer-based assessment, tracks the movements of patients while measuring the three main symptoms of ADHD – inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Results are then compared with patients of the same age who do not have ADHD.
Evidence from trials suggests the tests could increase the number of young patients being diagnosed, or having the condition ruled out, within six months.
At the moment, those suspected of having ADHD have the condition diagnosed or ruled out following a detailed assessment which can include interviews with the child, their parents, or teachers and a physical examination to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms.
In draft guidance, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has recommended QbTest be used by the NHS to aid the diagnosis of patients aged six to 17 alongside standard clinical assessment.
According to ADHD UK, some 2.6 million people in the UK have the condition, including more than 700,000 children.
There is currently no national data published on referrals or waiting times for ADHD assessments.
But a 2022 survey by the Petitions Committee found that among patients who had had an ADHD diagnosis, 14% waited two to three years for an NHS assessment and 27% waited between one and two years.
Another 27% waited between six months and one year for an NHS assessment.
Mark Chapman, director of Nice’s HealthTech programme, said that young people with ADHD “deserve to receive a diagnosis in a timely manner”.
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He said: “We heard from our patient experts there are challenges with current pathways.
“We’re committed to ensuring we get the best care to people fast while providing value for money to the taxpayer. This technology has the potential to generate tangible benefits to the lives of those waiting for an ADHD diagnosis.”
A consultation on the draft guidance is now under way.
Henry Shelford, chief executive of ADHD UK, said: “Improving ADHD wait times in the UK is important – especially for children.
“You can’t rewind the clock on lost school years, and with childhood wait times of up to five years, these wait times are rewriting the lives of young people with ADHD.
“This technology aids ADHD specialist clinicians and can speed up diagnosis, freeing up time for others to be assessed.”
Mr Shelford added that Nice “has been revolutionary in getting support for people with ADHD”.
He said: “Nice looked past ADHD stigma and went out on a limb to write the first ADHD guidelines.
“Guidelines that required NHS recognition, assessment and treatment of ADHD. That has been a lifeline to hundreds of thousands of people.”