What clinical information does a GP typically need before agreeing to Shared Care?

In the UK, there is no single national checklist that every GP follows for shared care of ADHD medication. Policies vary by local NHS area and individual GP practices. However, GPs will generally want enough information to be confident that specialist assessment, prescribing, and monitoring have been carried out appropriately before taking over repeat prescribing. Normally the GP will want a clinic letter from us of sufficient detail and quality that they are assured of: -The diagnostic criteria used (such as DSM-5 or ICD-11). -A summary of the assessment. -Relevant psychiatric, developmental, and medical history. -The medication prescribed (name, formulation, and dose) and why was that chose. -How the dose was titrated. -The current stable dose and for how long they have been on it -Evidence that titration is complete, showing: Symptoms have improved. Side effects are acceptable. The dose has been stable for an appropriate period.A clear shared care agreement, setting out: What the specialist remains responsible for. What the GP is expected to do. How often reviews are required. How concerns or dose changes will be managed. Even when all of the above information is provided, a GP is not obliged to enter into a shared care agreement. They may decline because: • Their practice policy does not support shared care for ADHD. • Their local ICB guidance restricts it. • They feel they lack the expertise or capacity to monitor the medication safely. • The specialist is outside the NHS or not recognised under local arrangements. If your specialist is requesting shared care, it can help if they provide a comprehensive clinic letter addressing all of the points above, together with the local shared care protocol if one exists. This often makes it easier for the GP to assess whether they are able to take over prescribing.