VARIATIONS IN ADHD TREATMENT AMONG SPECIAL-EDUCATION STUDENTS

Objective: To examine Variation in patient characteristics (case-mix) and treatment patterns for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (A DHD) by provider type. Method: By means of a two-stage study design, 1 02 children were identified as receiving treatment for ADHD in the pas t year, among a school district-wide sample of second- through fourth- grade special education students. Parent and child interviews were con ducted using standardized measures of need for treatment, service use, and process of care. Results: Nearly three fourths of the children re ceived treatment for ADHD by a primary care provider, and of these, 68 % did not have any contact with a mental health specialist. Children t reated only by a primary care provider had fewer comorbid conditions, less impairment, and lower levels of family burden than children treat ed only by a mental health specialist. Treatment of ADHD solely by pri mary care providers was characterized by fewer sessions, less time wit h the patient, and less use of multimodal therapies. Conclusion: Futur e studies examining clinical outcomes for ADHD treatment should take i nto account variation in case-mix and treatment patterns by provider t ype.