Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has become a major aspect of the work of child and adolescent\npsychiatrists and paediatricians in the UK. In Scotland, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services were required\nto address an increase in referral rates and changes in evidence-based medicine and guidelines without additional\nfunding. In response to this, clinicians in Dundee have, over the past 15 years, pioneered the use of integrated psychiatric,\npaediatric, nursing, occupational therapy, dietetic and psychological care with the development of a clearly\nstructured, evidence-based assessment and treatment pathway to provide effective therapy for children and adolescents\nwith ADHD. The Dundee ADHD Clinical Care Pathway (DACCP) uses standard protocols for assessment, titration\nand routine monitoring of clinical care and treatment outcomes, with much of the clinical work being nurse led.\nThe DACCP has received international attention and has been used as a template for service development in many\ncountries. This review describes the four key stages of the clinical care pathway (referral and pre-assessment; assessment,\ndiagnosis and treatment planning; initiating treatment; and continuing care) and discusses translation of the\nDACCP into other healthcare systems. Tools for healthcare professionals to use or adapt according to their own clinical\nsettings are also provided.
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