Improved access to mental health care
Access to mental health services has improved according to a post-implementation review of the Better Access program, a new initiative designed to improve access to psychiatrists, psychologists and general practitioners.
The Federal Government remains committed to robust assessment of this program to ensure this Commonwealth investment is best meeting the needs of the community.
The Better access to psychiatrists, psychologists and general practitioners through the Medicare Benefits Schedule (Better Access) program was introduced to improve support for patients with mental disorders.
It covers 23 Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) items relating to mental health services provided by general practitioners, psychiatrists, clinical and general psychologists and appropriately trained social workers and occupational therapists.
A full evaluation of the initiative will be completed in late 2010.
More information about Better Access is available at http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/mental-ba-over
