Mental Health Reforms; Every year, about four million Australians suffer some form of mental health issue National healthcare reforms are expected to bring about more flexible mental health services by 2019.
The Darling Downs West Moreton Public Health Network is currently responding to the National Mental Health Commission review of mental health program and services.
Mental Health Reforms to bring Australia into a stepped care model will be rolled out between 2016 and 2019 and delivered within existing funding framework.
Within a stepped care approach, the role of general mental health practitioners is critical.
GPs are typically the first point of contact for people seeking help for mental health issues, serving as gatekeepers to other service providers.
Mental Health Reforms in Australia
It is anticipated that access to most primary mental health services commissioned by PHNs, will continue to require a referral from a GP or psychiatrist.
There may be some exceptions to this, for example access to low intensity services might be through a range of pathways including self-referral, or it may be necessary to broaden referral arrangements for some groups such as young people who may otherwise experience system barriers
Consultation with healthcare providers and the primary health sector will be held across the region where input will be sought from all key stakeholders.
Under the reforms there will also be a new approach to suicide prevention coordinated by PHNs, and a new gateway to optimise the use of digital mental health services. To read more click here.
Mental Health Reforms will be discussed at The 17th International Mental Health Conference; Guiding the Change. The Conference will be held at the brand new Sea World Resort Conference Centre on the Gold Coast, on the 11 -12 August 2016. To register your attendance at the conference CLICK HERE.
This conference will bring together leading clinical practitioners, academics, service providers and mental health experts to deliberate and discuss Mental Health issues confronting Australia and New Zealand.
The conference program is designed to challenge, inspire, demonstrate and encourage participants while facilitating discussion. CLICK HERE to view the exciting program .
