Adult ADHD Diagnosis & Treatment via Telehealth with Dr. Shireen Surtee

Receiving an accurate Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) evaluation and initiating evidence-based management has become significantly more accessible in South Africa through virtual consultations. Telehealth allows adults struggling with persistent focus issues, executive dysfunction, or emotional dysregulation to undergo structured clinical evaluations from home.

Step-by-Step Guide to Telehealth Adult ADHD Care

1. Recognise Common Adult ADHD Symptoms: Adult ADHD often presents differently than childhood ADHD. Key indicators include:
   • Executive dysfunction, disorganization, and severe procrastination.
   • Persistent difficulty maintaining focus during work tasks or conversations.
   • Impulsivity, emotional hyper-reactivity, and restlessness.
   • Time blindness, frequent misplacement of essential items, and difficulty managing deadlines.
2. Select an Accredited Telehealth Practitioner: Dr. Shireen Surtee provides comprehensive clinical screenings and diagnostic evaluations for adult ADHD. As an HPCSA-registered GP, she conducts thorough assessments, differential medical screenings, and specialist referrals to psychiatrists or clinical psychologists when needed.
3. Schedule an Online Evaluation Consultation: The assessment process typically comprises:
   • Completing standardized diagnostic questionnaires (such as the ASRS-v1.1 symptom checklist).
   • A detailed virtual clinical consultation reviewing developmental history, occupational impact, and previous medical history.
   • Laboratory or specialist referrals if secondary medical causes require investigation.
4. Receive Differential Diagnosis & Screening: Dr. Surtee screens for overlapping or co-occurring conditions—such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depression, or chronic sleep apnoea—to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
5. Initiate Multimodal Treatment: Evidence-based management of adult ADHD combines medical, psychological, and behavioral strategies:
   • Pharmacotherapy: Prescribing central nervous system stimulants (e.g., Methylphenidate / Concerta / Ritalin, Lisdexamfetamine / Vyvanse) or non-stimulant medications (e.g., Atomoxetine / Strattera) under strict HPCSA prescribing guidelines.
   • Psychological & Coaching Referrals: Referral for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-ADHD) to develop targeted executive function strategies.
   • Lifestyle & Organizational Coaching: Guidance on time-blocking, mindfulness, and digital productivity frameworks.
6. Ongoing Monitoring & Prescription Reviews: Regular follow-up consultations ensure treatment efficacy and monitor vital signs (blood pressure and heart rate).

Overview of ADHD Medication Categories in South Africa

Non-Stimulant AgentsAtomoxetine (Strattera, Augmentin), GuanfacineSchedule 5 Prescription: Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor; suitable for patients with severe anxiety or cardiovascular risks.

About Doctor In Your Pocket

Doctor In Your Pocket is a South African telehealth platform operated by Dr. Shireen Surtee, an HPCSA-registered General Practitioner with over 25 years of clinical experience. Our practice provides accessible online consultations, ADHD screenings, mental health support, e-prescriptions, valid sick notes, and specialist referral letters at transparent rates across Mzansi. Proudly Mzansi.