ASDP Podcast

This conversation focuses on prescribing medications for children with complex developmental and mental health issues, covering topics like antihistamines, melatonin, CBD oil, and medications for anxiety, tics, and sleep disorders. Experts discussed concerns about long-term medication use, the role of alternative treatments, and the importance of careful documentation and reassessment in prescribing.

A conversation with Professor Diane Shanley, a clinical psychologist and an expert in implementation science. Interviewed by Dr Brad Jongeling at the 2024 Annual Conference, Gold Coast.Professor Dianne Shanley explains the Tracking Cube, a co-designed, tool-agnostic framework that breaks down neurodevelopmental assessment into six structured tiers to improve early identification and support for children, especially in remote and Indigenous communities. Developed with community input, it enables non-specialists to conduct much of the assessment using tools like the Rapid Neurodevelopmental Assessment (RNDA), helping to triage more effectively and start support early while awaiting specialist input. The system has shown promising results in improving referral accuracy without overwhelming services and is now being trialed in other regions through an NHMRC-funded stepped-wedge RCT to evaluate its broader national potential.

This episode discusses a pharmacist-led program at the Gold Coast Hospital that supports paediatricians in managing ADHD medication. This initiative, which began as a pilot in 2018 has grown significantly, alleviating pressure on paediatricians by handling medication management while also recognising broader patient needs. The program has successfully treated nearly a thousand patients and received positive feedback from families. 

Dr. Con Papadopoulos reflects on his career blending acute and developmental paediatrics, highlighting the importance of managing complexity, fostering community-wide support for child development, and advancing ASDP’s role in uniting and guiding clinicians toward more dynamic, sustainable care models.