Understanding Your Mental Health Care Plan
What is a Mental Health Care Plan?
A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is a referral from your doctor that provides access to Medicare-subsidised sessions with a psychologist or mental health professional. It helps individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns get professional support.
Eligibility:
Individuals diagnosed with a mental health disorder, such as anxiety or depression, are eligible for a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Your General Practitioner (GP) will assess your condition to determine if this plan is appropriate for you.
Accessing the Plan:
Consultation: Schedule an appointment with your GP, specifying that you'd like to discuss a Mental Health Treatment Plan. This ensures adequate time for a thorough assessment.
Assessment: During the visit, your GP will evaluate your mental health, discuss your concerns, and may ask you to complete a questionnaire to better understand your condition.
Development of the Plan: If deemed appropriate, your GP will collaborate with you to create a personalized plan, which includes:
Goals: Specific objectives tailored to your mental health needs.
Treatment Options: Recommendations for therapies or interventions.
Support Services: Information on available resources and referrals to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, or occupational therapists.
Medicare Benefits:
With a Mental Health Treatment Plan, you can claim up to 10 individual and 10 group therapy sessions with a mental health professional per calendar year.
Initially, your GP can refer you for up to 6 sessions. After these, a review with your GP will determine if additional sessions are necessary, up to a maximum of 10.
Cost Considerations:
Health professionals set their fees, so Medicare may only cover part of the cost. When booking an appointment, it's advisable to ask about the total fee and the portion covered by Medicare.
Regular Reviews:
It's important to have regular follow-ups with your GP to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Significant changes in your health may require a new plan, but even without major changes, periodic reviews ensure the plan remains effective.
Additional Support:
If you reside in a remote area, accessing mental health professionals might be challenging. In such cases, you may be eligible for telehealth video consultations, which are also covered under Medicare. Discuss this option with your GP if applicable.
For more comprehensive information, you can visit the Services Australia website on Mental Health Care and Medicare.
Remember, taking the step to discuss your mental health with your GP at Shelley Hub Family Practice is crucial. They can guide you through the process and ensure you receive the support you need.