How to make use of a Mental Health Care Plan

(Last updated 29/01/23)

A variety of conditions can be referred for psychological services through a Medicare scheme known as “Better Access” or Focussed Psychological Strategies (FPS). To access this make an extended appointment with your GP to complete your “Mental Health Care Plan”. Due to the need for careful assessment, safety checks and treatment planning, this initial assessment takes between 20 to 40 minutes, and carries additional funding from Medicare, and therefore should not cost you extra beyond a standard consultation.

Currently up to 10 subsidised sessions are allocated per calendar year. After your 6th session, your therapist will write a short report to the referring GP on any clinical progress, and recommend further treatment as required. Your GP will then review your mental health care plan, and refer for a further 4 sessions. Extensions offered during the pandemic have been suspended for now. Patients with eating disorders can continue to access further sessions with an Eating Disorder Plan (EDP).