When to Refer

The primary physician can treat the majority of children with AD/HD. It requires an initial time investment and long term commitment by the family and medical provider. Therapy is highly effective and for the child and family the rewards can be immense.

Children with comorbid disorders (e.g., Tourette's, oppositional defiant, conduct and obsessive/compulsive disorders, anxiety or depression, and pervasive developmental delay) are best managed in consultation with a child psychiatrist, neurologist, or developmental specialist. Children who have failed a trial of several medications and preschool children should also be referred.