Improving ADHD assessments through QbTest implementation
Outcomes and learning
Outcomes
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Clinicians reported increased diagnostic confidence, with 92% agreeing that the QbTest helped them feel more confident in making diagnostic decisions.
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93% stated the QbTest helped them better understand the young person's presenting needs.
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62% felt it helped them reach diagnostic decisions more quickly, with indications that this may improve further now that clinics are well established.
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Regular QbTest clinics were shown to be essential to ensure timely incorporation into assessments.
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Data indicated the QbTest was used more frequently with females than males, particularly older teenage girls.
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The tool was especially valuable where:
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young people were not in school
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there were comorbidities
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contextual evidence was lacking
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there were discrepancies between home and school reports
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Feedback highlighted that QbTest results could replace more time‑intensive activities such as school observations.
Learning
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A full‑team training approach improved consistency and confidence in administration and interpretation.
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Interpretation skills continue to develop, supported by QbTech online modules, follow‑up training and the creation of clinical 'champions' who run clinics regularly.
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Implementation required time and adjustment; capacity had to be increased to meet demand.
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The QbTest is particularly helpful in complex presentations, including where autism, learning disability, trauma or non‑attendance at school make diagnostic formulation more challenging.
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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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