Consultation With Pediatricians in the Management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

In recent years, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has become a common pediatric diagnosis. The number of affected children increases with age, most particularly during the years of schooling and academic life, and can cause significant impairment. The nature of this disorder, the challenges of properly diagnosing it, and the involvement of numerous types of health care professionals in the ongoing management of children with ADHD have resulted in a new model of collaboration between pediatricians and psychologists. This may be done in consultation or in a more interdisciplinary fashion as members of an evaluation team. ADHD assessment typically requires numerous professionals to provide information in order to reach an appropriate diagnosis and intervention plan. Therefore, regardless of which specific type of collaboration occurs (interdisciplinary or consultative), improved communication between medical professionals and psychologists is paramount for effective management of children with ADHD.