Referrals to adult ADHD team in north-east ‘paused’

The HSE has ceased accepting referrals to its tertiary-level specialist adult ADHD team in the north-east, the Medical Independent (MI) has learned.

The pause has been in place since the end of May, when the HSE wrote to GPs explaining referrals would recommence when the list had reduced to about 50 patients.

The letter was issued by Dr Nora Ibrahim, Consultant Psychiatrist and NEAAS (North East Adult ADHD Services) Clinical Lead. It explained that the cessation was in response to significant pressures on the service.

The service, which covers counties Louth, Meath, Cavan, and Monaghan, only began accepting referrals in November 2025, but quickly became overwhelmed.

A HSE Dublin and North East spokesperson told MI more than 375 referrals were received during the first six months of 2026.

“With current staffing levels, the service is able to assess an average of 14 new referrals per month,” according to Dr Ibrahim’s letter.

The HSE spokesperson stated: “The current estimated waiting time is approximately six months. There are currently 129 people at various stages of the triage and assessment pathway.”

The pause on accepting referrals from GPs and mental health services will not be lifted until the list has reduced to approximately 50 patients.

“Referrals will then be accepted up to a maximum waiting list capacity of 500 referrals across the four counties, at which point, the pause will be reintroduced if necessary,” stated Dr Ibrahim’s letter.

“We regret the need to implement these measures, however, allowing waiting lists to continue to expand unchecked would present significant clinical and operational risks.

“We would like to reassure you that individuals with possible ADHD can continue to access primary and secondary mental health services for assessment and treatment of other mental health difficulties, such as anxiety or depression, in the same manner as prior to the establishment of this service. However, as you are aware, these services do not provide specialist ADHD assessment or treatment.”

According to the HSE spokesperson, referral and access arrangements are being reviewed at regional level.

“This review includes consideration of the existing waiting list, staffing capacity, and the arrangements required to support sustainable access to the service.”