Mental Health Care Plan

A Mental Health Treatment Plan does not have an expiration date once it is initially created. Changes to the plan could be done by the GP periodically depending on the patient’s condition, their progress and any new developments or symptoms that arise. When a Medicare rebate is applied, a patient is eligible for 10 individual and 10 group sessions per calendar year, if the condition demands. These sessions will be replenished every calendar year.

A Mental Health Care Plan is essential for individuals seeking professional help in addressing their mental health concerns. The Australian government has introduced this initiative to improve mental health care accessibility and affordability for all Australians. With this plan in place, you can receive a range of support services for conditions such as depression, anxiety, suicide prevention, substance abuse, childhood issues, behavioural problems etc.

You can expect the following from a Mental Health Care Plan

– Working with a GP to create a tailored Mental Health Treatment Plan

– Request referrals to a range of mental health professionals, who can offer specialised therapy to help you cope better.

– Valid Medicare card holders can get 10 free sessions and 10 group sessions per year. A GP will review your Mental Health Treatment Plan after 6 sessions to understand your present condition and to see if the plan needs any modifications.

A Mental Health Care Plan is a structured plan developed by a General Practitioner (GP) in collaboration with a patient who is experiencing mental health issues. It usually details the patient’s diagnosis, identification of treatment goals, and formulation of a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs.

A GP referral is given when the doctor thinks a specialist (Psychologist or psychiatrist) intervention is necessary to further evaluate a medical or mental condition. This usually has details on the patient’s condition, treatment required for the patient, any other medications or symptom-related concerns from the doctor, GPs name and signature

You can ask the GP to suggest a psychologist nearby or conduct your research and find someone who will suit your needs such as specialisation, location etc. Even if the referral specifies a particular psychologist’s name, you are not bound to that recommendation. The referral gives access to subsidised sessions with a psychologist, regardless of whether you choose the recommended professional or one of your choices.

If there are any noticeable changes in your symptoms or behaviour, you might need a new Mental Health Care Plan. The frequency with which a planned treatment is reviewed could be discussed with your GP. Depending on the medical concern involved and its complexity, your GP may initially prepare the Mental Health Treatment Plan for a year and subsequently review it every 3 or 6 months. The plan should address your mental health and when that requirement is not being met, you must contact a GP and review the Mental Health Treatment Plan immediately.

If your GP thinks it is necessary, medication may be recommended as part of your treatment plan for mental health issues. This could involve your doctor prescribing medication directly or referring you to a psychiatrist who can assess and prescribe medication if necessary. While medication is one potential treatment option, it is important to note that it may not always be included in a Mental Health Care Plan. Your telehealth doctor or health practitioner may present you with various treatment options, considering factors such as the nature and severity of your condition, your preferences, and any potential side effects or risks associated with medication. The decision about whether medication is incorporated into your treatment plan will depend on a thorough assessment and whether your online doctor thinks your condition warrants it.

If your GP thinks it is necessary, your Mental health appointment can encompass referrals to a diverse range of mental health specialists and allied health professionals. These referrals may extend to professionals such as psychiatrists, who can provide assessment and medication management if needed, psychologists who offer therapeutic interventions tailored to your needs, social workers who provide support and guidance, or occupational therapists who assist in improving daily functioning and coping strategies. The inclusion of these specialists and allied health professionals in your treatment plan aims to address various aspects of your mental health and well-being, enhancing the effectiveness of your overall care strategy.

At Hola Health the Mental Health Treatment Plan is 100% Bulk Billed i.e., the consultation comes at $0 for valid Medicare card holders. A hold of $63 is placed on your credit card and refunded after the appointment. If you cancel within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment or do not attend, the $63 will be charged to your credit card.

After requesting to speak with a general practitioner for a Mental Health Treatment Plan, the health practitioner or GP will discuss your symptoms, concerns, and treatment goals. The health practitioner or GP will then tailor a Mental Health Care Plan according to your diagnosis, treatment options, and personal goals. This plan may encompass a variety of treatments and support networks to address your mental health needs comprehensively.

If necessary, your GP may recommend a referral to a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or counsellor. Additionally, they might prescribe medication, suggest lifestyle modifications, and discuss self-help strategies appropriate to your situation.

If you possess a valid Medicare card, you may be eligible for Medicare benefits that can partially cover the consultation. It is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider regarding the benefits and costs that your will incur.

As part of ongoing care, your treatment plan will be periodically reviewed and adjusted by your GP to assess your progress and make any necessary modifications to your treatment regimen. This ensures that your care remains aligned with your evolving needs and continues to support your journey toward improved mental well-being.

When you get a Mental Health Care Plan, you will be eligible for Medicare benefits and can get rebates for up to 10 sessions with mental healthcare experts. This reduces the cost of treatment; and ensures you get quality care and referrals or medication if necessary. This will also help as a reference for any doctor you might be visiting ensuring there is continuity in care where applicable. This helps coordinate the information between the various professionals you are working with and ensures you get the most effective treatment. Overall, this planned treatment will improve your mental health with constant care from professionals and at a reduced cost, provided you have a Medicare card.

It usually does not have an expiry date once it is prepared unless your GP thinks it is necessary to modify it or issue a new one. This depends on your medical condition, your response to the treatment and the doctor’s assessment.

A Mental Health Treatment Plan will be given by a GP if the patient’s condition warrants it. In case the GP is not able to provide the plan, they will explain why your situation does not require a Mental Health Treatment Plan and will suggest alternate treatment options to solve the mental health concern. If you disagree with this decision and believe that a rebated Mental Health Treatment Plan would better meet your needs, it is important to discuss your concerns with your doctor. For patients without a valid Medicare card, the doctor can still consult with them regarding a mental health plan, albeit without the benefits of Medicare.