L-R: Dr Vysalan Srianandaraja – GP Yamba Doctors, Bel Davis – ADHD CNC Co-Management Coordinator, Paediatrician Dr Andrew Kennedy.
A new Outreach ADHD Clinic has commenced in Yamba, marking a critical step toward addressing the significant backlog of children awaiting ADHD assessment through Grafton Paediatric Outpatients.
With over 500 children on the waitlist – many waiting close to 3 years – this service represents a major advancement in improving timely access to care for families across the Clarence Valley.
Operating from Yamba Doctors and staffed by RDN-funded locum paediatrician Dr Andrew Kennedy, the clinic provides 1.5 days of specialist care each month. Two successful clinics have already been delivered, with services set to continue from February 2025.
This initiative was made possible through strong collaboration between Northern NSW LHD Paediatrics, Yamba Doctors, Grafton Paediatric Outpatients, the statewide ADHD CNC program, and Healthy North Coast. Together, these partners have enabled the clinic to launch quickly and begin addressing long-standing demand.
Children receiving specialise care across the first 2 clinics were assessed and connected with clearer care pathways. Families travelled from across the Clarence Valley and beyond, reflecting the widespread need for timely ADHD assessment.
Healthy North Coast Regional Manager Rowena Terone said the early outcomes demonstrate the power of collaboration:
“Families have been waiting a very long time, and this clinic shows what can be achieved when services come together with a shared goal. It’s a strong example of collaboration improving access for local families.”
Dr Kennedy reflected on the scale of unmet need:
“I knew the waitlist was long, but I didn’t understand the gravity of it until I met families who had been waiting more than three years. They are deeply appreciative and relieved to finally be seen.”
Local GP Dr Vysalan Srianandarajah added:
“This service is vital for our community. The more we can safely manage in primary care, the less strain we place on paediatric services.”
Digital readiness tools, including SNAP-IV and CADDRA questionnaires completed online via REDCap, have streamlined the process, enabling Dr Kennedy to review information ahead of appointments and start treatment promptly.
With ongoing clinics scheduled and strong commitment across the region, the Yamba Outreach ADHD Clinic is positioned to make a sustained impact on reducing wait times and improving access to care.
This initiative reflects a shared commitment across the region to ensure all children receive timely, safe, and coordinated ADHD care close to home.
