Improving ADHD assessments through QbTest implementation

Outcomes and learning

Outcomes

  • Clinicians reported increased diagnostic confidence, with 92% agreeing that the QbTest helped them feel more confident in making diagnostic decisions.

  • 93% stated the QbTest helped them better understand the young person's presenting needs.

  • 62% felt it helped them reach diagnostic decisions more quickly, with indications that this may improve further now that clinics are well established.

  • Regular QbTest clinics were shown to be essential to ensure timely incorporation into assessments.

  • Data indicated the QbTest was used more frequently with females than males, particularly older teenage girls.

  • The tool was especially valuable where:

    • young people were not in school

    • there were comorbidities

    • contextual evidence was lacking

    • there were discrepancies between home and school reports

  • Feedback highlighted that QbTest results could replace more time‑intensive activities such as school observations.

Learning

  • A full‑team training approach improved consistency and confidence in administration and interpretation.

  • Interpretation skills continue to develop, supported by QbTech online modules, follow‑up training and the creation of clinical 'champions' who run clinics regularly.

  • Implementation required time and adjustment; capacity had to be increased to meet demand.

  • The QbTest is particularly helpful in complex presentations, including where autism, learning disability, trauma or non‑attendance at school make diagnostic formulation more challenging.

  • Future plans include refining criteria for identifying which assessments would benefit from a QbTest and ensuring it is completed early enough to inform the first multidisciplinary team discussion.

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