Mr McClelland asked the Minister for Health and Family Services, upon notice, on 30 October 1997:

(1) Further to his answer to question No. 2094 (Hansard , 20 October 1997, page 9276), has there been further research or opinion as to the efficacy of electroencephalographic services where the service involves quantitative typographic mapping using neurometrics or similar devices since the question of Medicare benefits for diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder was last considered in 1995; if so, what.

(2) Will his department further investigate the issue with a view to restoring Medicare benefits for such services.

Dr Wooldridge —The answer to the honourable member's question is as follows:

(1) The National Health and Medical Research Council's (NHMRC) report on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was endorsed by Council in December 1996. The report concludes that the sensitivity and specificity of quantitative topographic mapping techniques using neurometrics in relation to ADHD have been investigated in a number of research studies but at present such techniques are still experimental and are not necessary in routine clinical practice (p. 31). The Report also recommends that investigations such as neurophysiological tests are not recommended as part of the routine assessment of ADHD.

This advice from the NHMRC is consistent with the advice previously given to my Department by the Australian Association of Neurologists and the Australian College of Paediatrics. Although electroencephalographic techniques in this area seem to show some promise they are still considered a research tool rather than an essential part of the routine clinical assessment of children with Attention Deficit Disorder.

(2) The Australian College of Paediatrics has advised my Department that new research is being undertaken on the use of neurometrics for the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder. The College has also reaffirmed its previous advice on this procedure.

If the current research leads to additional new evidence on the value of this procedure in the investigational management of Attention Deficit Disorder it will be appropriate to refer it to the Medicare Services Advisory Committee for assessment and advice on the strength of evidence relating to safety, effectiveness and cost effectiveness.

This Committee is an initiative of the Government's 1997-98 Budget package aimed at strengthening the evidence base of the Medicare Benefits Schedule.