ADHD Assessment at The Bendigo Rainbow Hub

What does assessment involve? 

At Bendigo Rainbow Hub, we offer ADHD assessment for children, youth, and adults. Our comprehensive mental health services include gathering information from multiple sources and administering formal assessment measures. The assessment process consists of a series of questionnaires and interviews. 

Are you able to prescribe medications? 

Our doctors and nurse practitioners at Bendigo Rainbow Hub are able to prescribe medication for ADHD. 

Can my GP prescribe my medications? 

If your GP is willing and you are on a stable dose, we are happy to transfer prescribing and stimulant permits to your GP in accordance with state and territory laws. 

Where is the assessment held? 

We provide assessments via telehealth or in person at our clinic in Bendigo. 

Is there a waitlist? 

Generally, we can see you within 1-2 months. 

Do I need a referral? 

We are happy to see you with or without a referral, but having one may make you eligible for a Medicare rebate. It's also important for us to communicate with your GP, whether you have a referral or not. 

How much does the assessment cost? 

An initial appointment with a psychiatrist is $850. While it isn't possible to say how long it will take to stabilize medication doses, follow-up appointments typically cost between $150-250. With our nurse practitioner, the initial appointment is $450, with follow-up appointments at $180, and an appointment with our psychiatrist for $250 to start your medication. 

Is there a Medicare rebate? 

In many cases, yes. You will need a referral from your GP for Medicare rebates with a psychiatrist. For a nurse practitioner or registrar, you must see them in person for the first appointment to qualify for a Medicare rebate. 

How should I prepare? 

It can be helpful to bring any previous test results such as school reports, imaging, your medication list, and other medical history, especially if you have childhood medical reports or letters. On the day of assessment, ensure you have had adequate sleep, food, and water. 

Can someone else attend with me? 

You can bring support people, regardless of their relationship to you. There may be limited space in the assessment room, so please let us know if you are bringing more than 2 people to the clinic. If it's someone who knows you well, they can contribute valuable information during your interview. 

How long will the assessment take? 

The interview can take up to 1 hour, and follow-up sessions tend to last up to 30 minutes. 

Do I have to involve a parent? 

If a family member or someone who has known you for a long time is available, their presence can enhance the process. They do not need to attend the interview, but we ask that, if possible, someone who knew you before you were 18 years old completes a questionnaire. We understand that not everyone has contact with childhood acquaintances and are happy to work with you to obtain the most accurate information possible. School reports can be particularly helpful in establishing a long-term pattern of symptoms. 

Are my results confidential? 

Your results will be shared with your referrer and your GP. You can choose with whom else you wish to share the information.