Is my mental health plan current?

[kaceymad]

Hi,

I'm really confused about the mental health plan. I got one from my doctor at about this time last year and went to their recommended psychologist about 4 times. I now have an appointment for a different psychologist next week and have been asked if I have gotten a plan from my doctor. I went to my doctor to get a new one and she said she didn't need to do one because she already has.... (but she didn't seem 100% confident) How do I know that it is current and valid before I go to my first appointment, and how to I link the two?

Any help would be very much appreciated. Thanks so much!

[jess334]

Hi kaceymad,

It can be really confusing and unfortunately there is not a lot of information out there for patients explaining what mental health plans are and how they can use them. All the information is aimed towards GPs and Mental Health Professionals.

Mental health plans last 12 months. After that medicare deems them invalid (they wont charge any additional psyc fees to it) and you need a new one. Your doctor should also arrange for a mental health review approximately 6 months into your plan.

This information is from the Department of Health, it is written for GPs. Maybe you can pass this onto your doctor if she is still unsure?

http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/pacd-gp-mental-health-care-pdf-qa#2_2

Kind thoughts, Jess

[kaceymad]

thank you so so much! Super helpful.

Cheers, KC

[romantic_thi3f]

Hi KC,

Jess gave you some great information about the MHCP, but I just thought I'd add - if you have a MYGOV account linked to Medicare you can actually login online and see how many visits you've used so you know how many you have left for the year.

[Doolhof]

Thanks Romantic_Thi3f and Jess for this insightful information! I had no idea you could track the sessions!

Cheers from Dools

[Doolhof]

Hi kaceymad,

All the best with your appointment.

I am wondering if your Dr has written a referral for you regarding the new psychologist?

Also if you still have any doubts about the mental health care plan and the acceptance of it by the new psychologist, maybe you could phone them and enquire before the appointment.

All the best, cheers from Dools