Guidelines for Documentation of Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, a "qualified individual with a disability is one who, with or without reasonable modification to rules, policies, or practices, the removal of architectural, communication, or transportation barriers, or the provision of auxiliary aids and services, meets the essential eligibility requirements for the receipt of services or participation in programs or activities provided by a public entity."

A person with a disability is anyone with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities such as walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, caring for self, performing manual tasks, working, or learning.

I. Qualifications of the Evaluator

Attention deficit disorders are considered disabilities under the ADA if a major life activity is substantially limited. A diagnosis by a licensed professional, including clinical social workers (LCSW), professional counselor (LPC), psychologists, psychiatrists, and physicians trained in ADHD/ADD assessment is required and should include title and license number and date of the evaluation in the report on letterhead stationery.

II. Substantiation of ADD and ADHD

Necessary documentation includes:

• Evaluations must be comprehensive. Documentation must show that DSM IV criteria for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder have been met.
• Information and/or test scores to rule out concomitant conditions, such as learning disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance-related disorders, relational problems, etc., must be completed.
• Documentation must give clear and specific evidence of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. A brief statement on a prescription form or letterhead is not acceptable.
• The process of diagnosis should be reported, providing test scores and/or appropriate data.
• Documentation must be current. In most cases, the evaluation should have been completed within the past three years.
• If medication is recommended, this should be noted.

Professionals conducting assessment and rendering diagnoses of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder must be qualified to do so. The person who signs the report must be the one who conducts the evaluation and writes the report. Documentation by family members, immediate or otherwise is not acceptable.

Further assessment by an appropriate professional may be required if learning disabilities or other disabling conditions exist. Documentation must be submitted to the Office of Disability Services in person or by mail or fax (540/654-1163).