Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 17, 2026

The Adventures of Fundi Intervention Based on the Cognitive and Emotional Processing in Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Patients
Published on: June 12, 2020
ADHD in children: a path to free medicines
J Hayden1, M Flood2, F McNicholas3,4,5
1Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland. johnhayden@rcsi.ie.
Many children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are not using their entitlement to free medication. Awareness campaigns are needed to ensure families access this benefit, preventing cost from hindering treatment adherence.
Area of Science:
- Health Economics
- Pediatric Pharmacology
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Recent media reports revealed disparities in free Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medication access for children.
- The Department of Health has mandated free ADHD medication for individuals under 16.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the State's expenditure on ADHD medications.
- To assess the implications of universal coverage for under-16s within the Long-Term Illness (LTI) scheme.
- To estimate the potential cost of universal ADHD medication coverage for minors.
Main Methods:
- Investigated drug reimbursement entitlements for children diagnosed with ADHD.
- Extracted data from the Primary Care Reimbursement Services for Community Drug Schemes in 2011.
- Calculated the cumulative and percentage spending on the LTI scheme for ADHD medications.
Main Results:
- In 2011, €107,894 (4.4%) of the €2.4 million spent by the State on ADHD medicines was covered under the LTI scheme.
- Estimated potential state costs for ADHD medications at €8.4 million, based on current prescription trends.
Conclusions:
- Significant underutilization of the LTI scheme for free ADHD medication among eligible children was observed.
- Public and professional awareness initiatives are crucial to inform families about their entitlements.
- Addressing cost barriers is essential for treatment adherence and improved health outcomes in children with ADHD.
- Recommendations for cost-effective prescribing are proposed to manage potential financial implications.
More Related Videos
10:02Event Related Potentials ERPs and other EEG Based Methods for Extracting Biomarkers of Brain Dysfunction: Examples from Pediatric Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD
Published on: March 12, 2020
13:09Using Brain Activation nir-HEG/Q-EEG and Execution Measures CPTs in a ADHD Assessment Protocol
Published on: April 1, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Adrenergic Agonists: Therapeutic Uses
Emergency and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) applications: Pressor agents increase blood pressure, heart rate, and contractility in shock and organ failure situations. Dopamine can induce vasodilation and stimulate adrenoceptors. Endogenous catecholamines are effective in treating cardiogenic shock. α2-agonists like clonidine can reverse anesthesia-induced hypertension.
Allergies and...
Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists
Prescription, Nonprescription and Orphan Drugs
The misuse and addiction to prescription drugs is a growing problem that can affect people of all age groups, specifically teenagers. This can happen when prescription medications are used in ways not intended by the prescriber, such as taking someone else's prescription or using medication for...
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids