Public pathway

HSE ADHD waiting times: check the current local route

There is no single reliable national waiting-time figure that tells an individual when an ADHD assessment will happen. Responsibility, eligibility, referral stage and capacity vary by age and local service.

Ask the service four specific questions

1. Has the referral been received and accepted?
2. Which service currently owns it?
3. Is any information missing before triage?
4. What support can begin while assessment is pending?

A waiting-list estimate is not an appointment guarantee. Record the date, service and answer when you check. If circumstances or risk change, contact the relevant clinician or urgent service rather than relying on an old estimate.

Private care is a separate decision

Before paying privately, confirm the assessor, scope, complete fee, report purpose and whether a later medical review would be required. A private report does not guarantee acceptance by another clinician, school, insurer or authority.

Source

ADHD Ireland: diagnosis and Irish referral information.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the HSE ADHD wait?

It varies by age, referral stage and local service. Ask the service holding the referral for dated information about your route.

Does going private guarantee faster completed care?

No. Availability, assessment stages, reports and any medical follow-up must all be confirmed directly.

Reviewed: 30 August 2026. Routes and services can change; confirm current requirements with the relevant Irish service or provider.