The information below is my understanding of the current situation with assessment and ADHD in British Columbia, Canada. Please seek the most up to date information by talking with your doctor. If you do not have a doctor, you can go to a clinic and speak to a doctor there.
You or your child can be screened for ADHD in two ways in British Columbia, Canada, through:
- Medical Services Plan (cost is covered, there is a wait list)
- Private Clinic or Centre (you pay, either no wait list or a shorter wait list)
Through MSP
Getting an ADHD Assessment can be a straight-forward process if your doctor has an up-to-date understanding of ADHD and they believe that there is a chance you or your child have ADHD. In some cases, the doctor will do the screening and diagnosis themselves and prescribe the appropriate evidence-based treatment which might include:
- counseling such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT),
- working with an executive function/skills coach (for parents, teens or adults),
- medication to trial, and
- other supports specific to your or your child (Behaviour support, Academic Strategist, etc.).
Children
Children may be assessed by the family doctor or referred to a Pediatrician. Usually, parents begin this process by talking with their family doctor.
Teens and Adults (17-35 years old)
In the last 5 years, it is more common for doctors to refer to an assessment clinic. In British Columbia, in the lower mainland, people age 17-35 are referred to the Regional ADHD Clinic . This centre has just relocated and will re-open in the spring of 2024 at Vancouver General Hospital. Unfortunately, there is currently a long wait list for the Regional ADHD Clinic. My doctor told me in September 2023 that it was a 4 year wait list. This explains why so many people are self-diagnosed.
Adults (over 35 years old)
Those over 35 years old begin by talking with their doctor and/or look for resources (including assessment resources) recommended by CADDAC (the Centre for ADHD Awareness, Canada).
Doctors have recently become more careful about diagnosing ADHD because they want to make sure that stimulant medications go to those who need them. If you are self-diagnosed, you will not have access to medication unless your doctor feels it is appropriate and important for your ability to function. You can however, still look for a Counselor, an Academic Strategist, and/or an ADHD Coach or an Executive Function/Skills Coach. You may find coverage for these services depending on the qualifications of the provider and any funding you have access to through work insurance, disability grants, and post-secondary institutions. Currently funding for ADHD supports is limited. This needs to change!
Through a Private Clinic or Centre
As an adult, you can refer yourself to a private clinic such as the Adult Centre for ADHD. They provide assessments across Canada by telemedicine.
Doctor Gurdeep Parhar and Dr. Anita Parhar continue to be formidable leaders and compassionate advocates for Adults with ADHD.
You can find other clinics and resources through CADDAC (the Centre for ADHD Awareness, Canada).
