Mental health
Better Access to Mental Health
From 1 November 2006 the following new MBS items provide support and remuneration for GPs to undertake early intervention, assessment and management of patients with a mental disorder:
- A GP Mental Health Care Plan
- Review of a GP Mental Health Care Plan
- A GP Mental Health Consultation
New Medicare rebates also apply for up to 6 sessions of psychological interventions provided by appropriately credentialed psychologists, social workers and occupational therapists on referral from a GP. A further 6 sessions (for a total of 12) are available following a review by the referring GP.
Mental Health Online CPD Education for GPs
RACGP is using the online learning platform gplearning.com.au to deliver new mental health education to general practitioners across Australia.
The series of education activities includes three case studies covering early psychosis, relapse and long-term patients. As part of the series, an activity feature real patient/carer interviews has been developed, covering patient perceptions of their condition and its management.
The General Practice Mental Health Standards Collaboration has approved the education activity as part of Mental Health Skills Training. For more information phone 1800 284 789.
Support for GPs
GP Psych Support is a service that provides access to patient management advice from psychiatrists and is available 24/7.
If you don't already have a login name and password, contact the GP Psych Support team on 1800 200 588 and have your RACGP ID or Provider Number ready. You will then be able to log in and submit your query, and can expect a response from a psychiatrist within 24 hours. Alternatively you can just phone for support on 1800 200 588.
Local Psychologists and Specialists
We maintain an up-to-date service directory of local mental health clinicians.
Psychologists may register for inclusion on the list, or modify existing details, by filling out this psychologist registration form and returning it to Mary Shone at marys@grampiansml.com.au .
General Support
Recommended sites:
- Beyond Blue info line 1300 224 636
- Reach Foundation
- Reach Out
- MoodGym
- Multicultural Mental Health Australia help GPs support patients from culturally and linguistically diverse communities
If you need to speak to someone:
- Lifeline's Mental Health information line 1300 131 114 (rural areas only, Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST)
- SANE 1800 187 263 (Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm)
- Men's Health Australia - 1300 789 978 (24 hours, 7 days)
- Just ask