Pathway of access to an early diagnosis of attention deficit hiperactivity disorder (ADHD): A primary caregiver´s perspective

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate the access of an early diagnosis of the ADHD and to identify its barriers by means of a trajectory of facts from perceiving the symptoms until obtaining the formal diagnosis. Materials and methods. An integral conceptual model has been used - based on four dimensions (perceive, search, arrive and use) - and centered on the patient; this has allowed to trace a trajectory of facts lived by the dyads (pa­tient and their primary caregiver). The survey was composed of five open and 143 dichotomous or polytomous questions. 177 dyads participated. Results. Numerous barriers were identified to access the early diagnosis; the lack of perception of ADHD was key to initiate access. Conclusion. The lack of perception could be avoided with information to the care­givers so that they perceive the nuclear symptoms of ADHD as potential mental health problems.

Keywords

• trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperac¬tividad
• diagnóstico oportuno
• accesibilidad a los servicios de salud
• cuidador familiar
• méxico