Children who suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) require long-term medical treatment. There are three main forms of medication that is used to control the symptoms. One of these is provided free of charge on Malta’s national health service, and is perfectly sufficient for many children.

Other children, however, do not respond so well, and the specialist prescribes an alternative drug. Unfortunately, these drugs are expensive and they are needed on a long-term basis, usually for several years.

Parents spend close to €1,000 every year to give their children the best possible treatment despite the strain this expense puts on their families. A mother told me that she spends €70 every month to purchase the medicine for her son, and that she does not give him the medicine at weekends to save some money.

These families need help. I feel that all the medication required in the treatment of ADHD should be available free of charge on the national health service. The best possible control of this condition is in the best interests of the child itself, who will be able to pay more attention and therefore learn more. The control of hyperactivity and impulsivity is also beneficial to the family and the rest of the children in the class.

I appeal to our politicians to remember the children with ADHD and their families.

Dr Joseph Mizzi, Paediatrician

ATTARD