Families across Western Australia are facing heartbreaking delays of up to 18 months for crucial ADHD assessments, leaving vulnerable children without the support they desperately need, according to a leading Perth paediatrician.
The Hidden Crisis in Children's Healthcare
Dr Andrew Leech, a prominent Perth paediatrician, has sounded the alarm on what he describes as a "broken system" that's failing children with neurodevelopmental conditions. With assessment waitlists stretching to a year and a half, many kids are struggling through their formative school years without proper diagnosis or treatment.
The Real Impact on Young Lives
"These aren't just numbers on a waiting list," Dr Leech explains. "These are children who are crying out for help, facing daily challenges in classrooms and watching their self-esteem crumble." The emotional toll extends beyond the classroom, affecting family dynamics and overall mental wellbeing.
The situation has become so dire that some families are taking desperate measures, including:
- Paying thousands of dollars for private assessments they can barely afford
- Watching their children fall further behind academically each month
- Dealing with worsening behavioural issues and mental health concerns
- Navigating complex systems without adequate support or guidance
A System Under Pressure
Healthcare professionals point to several factors contributing to the crisis:
- Workforce shortages in specialist paediatric services
- Increasing awareness and identification of neurodiversity
- Complex assessment processes that require multiple appointments
- Growing demand outstripping available resources
The Urgent Need for Solutions
Dr Leech emphasises that early intervention is crucial for children with ADHD. "When we can identify and support these children earlier, we see dramatically better outcomes in their education, social development and long-term mental health," he states.
The current delays mean many children miss critical windows for intervention, potentially affecting their entire educational journey and future opportunities.
Call for Systemic Change
Healthcare advocates are calling for immediate action to address the growing crisis. Proposed solutions include:
- Increased funding for paediatric mental health services
- Training more healthcare professionals in ADHD assessment
- Developing streamlined referral pathways
- Implementing school-based support while children wait for diagnosis
As Dr Leech notes, "We have children and families in genuine distress. They need more than just a place on a waiting list—they need timely, compassionate care and proper support systems."
