What is a mental health care plan and how can it help me?

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re looking for mental health support, from figuring out the right kind of therapist to worrying about the cost. A mental health care plan can help you find the right provider, get the right treatment and save money along the way.

A mental health care plan (MHCP) is put together by your GP to help you get the right support and treatment, says Bupa GP Dr Janice Tan.

“A MHCP outlines your mental health needs and treatment goals. From that plan, you get access to Medicare-subsidised sessions for a psychologist or a mental health accredited social worker, occupational therapist or nurse.”

Under the current rules, a MHCP gives an individual access 10 Medicare-subsidised sessions within a 12 month period. It can be renewed in the next 12 month period, but not before.

Anyone can book a private consultation or treatment session with a psychologist. However, a MHCP provide access to the Medicare subsidy, so it can save you money.

When creating the plan, your GP can also assess your unique needs and provide a referral to the right practitioner to ensure you get the best possible treatment.

You do not need to be receiving treatment for a mental health condition to get an MHCP. However, your GP will assess your symptoms and make a diagnosis, even if symptoms are mild.

Your MHCP will state that you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety.

Your GP will ask you to tell them about why you might need help with your mental health.

This might include questions about how you’re feeling, anything that you’re struggling to do, such as go to work or care for yourself or your family, or if you’re having very low moods or anxious thoughts and for how long. They may also ask about your living situation, your family health history and other lifestyle factors such as if you smoke, take drugs or use alcohol.

Your GP will use this information to assess what kind of mental health care you may need and the right kind of practitioner to refer you to.

Yes, MHCPs are confidential and subject to patient/doctor privacy laws. However, you may be asked to disclose your mental health history when applying for certain jobs or types of insurance.

The MHCP only provides 10 subsidised sessions every 12 months. If you need more than 10 sessions with your provider you will have to pay the full amount until you can obtain a new one.

 

Your GP is a great first place to start if you have any questions about getting a MHCP. They may also be able to recommend some fully subsidised services in your local area.