Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common behavioral health conditions in children, and managing it well can make a world of difference. When prescribed and monitored appropriately, medication can effectively alleviate symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and trouble focusing – and health care providers play a crucial role in this process.

Recognizing the importance of ongoing care for ADHD, the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS^®) includes a dedicated measure: Follow-Up Care for Children Prescribed ADHD Medication (ADD-E).

What is the HEDIS ADD-E measure?

This measure tracks the level of support provided to children aged 6–12 who have been prescribed ADHD medication. There are two key phases:

1. Initiation phase: Did the child have a follow-up visit with a prescribing provider within 30 days of starting a medication?
2. Continuation and maintenance phase: Did the child stay on the medication for at least 210 days and have at least two follow-up visits within nine months after the initiation phase?

Practical tips for providers

Here are some simple, effective ways to help families stay on track:

• Proactively schedule the first follow-up. Make this appointment before the family leaves your office.
• Provide medication education. Discuss possible side effects and how dose adjustments work.
• Talk about medication shortages. Share strategies for managing refills and avoiding gaps in treatment.
• Use reminders. Outreach by text, email, or phone to help families remember and keep appointments.
• Explain the importance of follow-up care. Let families know they can connect via telehealth if that’s easier.
• Plan ahead. After the first follow-up, schedule two more visits over the next nine months to check progress.
• Encourage questions. Invite families to ask about ADHD or the treatment plan.
• Suggest school support: Encourage families to work with the child’s school to provide extra help.

Why HEDIS matters

HEDIS is a widely used tool for measuring and improving the quality of care. For behavioral health, these measures help ensure patients get the right care at the right time—affordably and effectively.

Additional resources

Want to learn more or share information with your patients? Check out these helpful links:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (Cigna Healthcare^®).
• Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents (American Academy of Pediatrics).
• Follow-Up Care for Children Prescribed ADHD Medication (ADD-E) (National Committee for Quality Assurance [NCQA])
• HEDIS Measures and Technical Resources (NCQA).

1    HEDIS is a registered trademark of NCQA.

2    Follow-up care is defined as a subsequent appointment with a qualified health care provider, which helps ensure medication compliance.