Mental Health
A Mental Health Care Plan is a personalized plan for individuals diagnosed with a mental health disorder. If you have been diagnosed with such a condition, your doctor can work with you to develop a plan tailored to your needs.
This plan outlines the type of healthcare services you require and clearly defines the goals that you and your doctor aim to achieve.
Who Can Access a Mental Health Care Plan?
You may be eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan if a doctor diagnoses you with a mental health disorder. These disorders include, but are not limited to:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
Mental health conditions can range in severity, affecting both individuals and their families. If you are concerned about your mental health or that of a loved one, visiting your GP is the first step to understanding the available treatments and therapies.
How Do I Get a Mental Health Care Plan?
To get started, book an appointment with your doctor. During the consultation, your doctor will assess your mental health, and if appropriate, work with you to develop a Mental Health Care Plan. You will set goals together as part of the process. When booking your appointment, it is a good idea to ask for a longer consultation (20 minutes or more) to allow ample time for this discussion.
What Does the Plan Cover?
With a Mental Health Care Plan, you can access Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual and 10 group sessions per year with certain allied mental health professionals, including:
- Psychologists
- Occupational therapists
- Social workers
Your doctor can also refer you to these services if necessary. After your initial sessions, a review with your doctor is required before you can access the remaining sessions.
If you have questions or are concerned about your mental health, contact Brindabella Medical Centre today to book a consultation with one of the health care professionals.