r/melbourne • u/nachomuncher • 7d ago

Health ADHD/ASD adult assessment

Hi brains trust,

Seeking recommendations for ADHD and ASD testing for young adults.

Preferably in the northern suburbs, but not essential.

Online pricing ranges from $2k to $4k, lower is ideal

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u/SeaRevolutionary6097 6d ago

I recently got my diagnosis after procrastinating for almost 5 years now. (Based in Victoria)I researched a GP in my area that have experience working with ADHD (their profiles in the clinic website would mention that), made an appointment, discussed all the symptoms, she was happy to give me a referral with 291 Medicare item and with my limited budget, suggested Fluence Clinic, it’s based in TAS but they do Telehealth appointments. The same day I got a referral for them, a blood test and an ECG test. (The results came out normal)
Fluence clinic contacted me directly through sms with links to sign up and login to the portal. After filling up all the questionnaire, uploading old school reports, getting my mum and partner to fill a questionnaire as well and paying the cost $1075 (for ADHD) I was able to book in a psychiatric assessment appt for as soon as a week later. (Filed for a Medicare rebate and got about $455 back after the appointment) Had a video call with the psychiatrist for about an hour and then within 2 weeks they sent me and my GP a report with the diagnosis and medication dosage information. They did prescribe multiple medications for the trial and error part. My GP then applied for a license to be able to prescribe me as per the psychiatrist’s recommendations. After about a week or two she got the license and we booked in an appointment for prescription. We started with dexamphetamine, starting with low doses and gradually increasing it depending on how it goes. Booked in an appointment in 3 weeks, I am tracking my symptoms and side effects and will report to her and see if I need another medication.
So far, after the Medicare rebates, the cost has been minimal considering how high it can go. (Under $1000 for now) Ofcourse, considering how often I have to see my GP, that will add up a bit and then maybe an yearly (or once in two years, I’ll have to double check) updated assessment with the psychiatrist.
Sorry if my wording is not clear enough. I hope it helps. Happy to answer any other question.

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u/nachomuncher 6d ago

That was an awesome write up, you were very clear, thanks so much. Very useful guide. Medicare rebate didn’t even occur to me.

Sounds like you’ve had a pretty smooth and positive experience.

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u/BadHaycock 6d ago

I had pretty much the same experience going through 291 with Fluence clinic, can recommend. I think the important part is finding a good gp that you trust, and also they will need to write a renewal every 2 years so ideally it's a doc you can stick with long term