Settlement Guide: 3 steps to access mental health services under Medicare

Through the Better Access initiative, Medicare rebates are available to patients for selected mental health services, provided by general practitioners, psychiatrists, psychologists, eligible social workers and occupational therapists.

Male doctor writing in patient chart, mid section Source: AAP

1. Visit your GP to assess your condition.

Your GP can prepare a “Mental Health Treatment Plan”. Medicare rebates are available for up to ten visits to mental health services per calendar year.

2. Get referralYou can be referred to certain Medicare mental health services, such as psychiatrists, once you have a GP “Mental Health Treatment Plan” in place.

 

Mental health at work by AAP Source: AAP

3. Follow up

Depending on your health care needs, following the initial course of six treatment sessions you can return to your GP or psychiatrist for a new referral for an additional four sessions.

Who is eligible?

All Medicare card holders with an assessed mental disorder. The Better Access initiative does not cover dementia, delirium, tobacco use disorder and mental retardation.

For further information head to the Better Access initiative. Information regarding eligibility, claiming and payment processes can be obtained from Medicare Australia, phone number 132 011 You can also refer to the Better access to mental health care fact sheet