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Better Outcomes Mental Health - ATAPS Program Overview and RationaleThe Better Outcomes in Mental Health Care Initiative was introduced in 2001 and provided General Practitioners with access to a system of care for patients with mental disorders. Better Outcomes provided increased renumeration for GP's to work with patients on a 3-step process that encompasses assessment, plan and review. Better Outcomes also provided increased access to allied mental health professionals and psychiatrists and provided improved education and training opportunities for General Practitioners. The initiative also led to the establishment of Access to Allied Psychological Services (ATAPS) programs in Divisions of General Practice and by 2006 all Divisions across Australia had ATAPS programs. ATAPS programs continue to expand and be tailored to the local needs and changing mental health environment. It is acknowledged that the Better Outcomes programs had some persistent barriers preventing all GPs being eligible to take up the program. On 1 November 2006 the Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and GPs through the Medicare Benefits Schedule was introduced addressing the barriers relating to mandatory education requirements and the need to be practicing from an accredited practice. Better Access is a core element of the Australian Governments contribution to the Council of Australian Governments mental health package - a five year, $1.9 billion contribution to reforrm Australian's mental health system. It is designed for participation by all GPs across Australia. Duration of Program and how it operatesThe BOMH - ATAPS program is administered through Divisions of General Practice to support a more integrated primary care system adapted to local needs. This component of the Better Outcomes in Mental Health Care initiative is designed to provide GPs with support from Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) contracted by the Division in treating people with a mental health disorder. The Division receives limited funding under this initiative and must also meet reporting and data collection requirements. The Division has received a commitment of funds from the Department of Health & Ageing until June 2010. How the Program benefits GPs and their PatientsFunds are available for GPs to refer patients to a Division contracted AHP for the provision 'time - limited' focused psycohological strategies (FPS) for defined mental health disorders. Referrals must occur in the context of a GP Mental Health Care Plan - Item 2710 or Item 2702. Item 2710 is for GPs who have completed accredited Mental Health Skills training. Item 2702 is for GPs who have not completed accredited Mental Health Skills training. Funding received will service approximately 750 patients per year to be referred for up to 6 sessions. Additional sessions will need to be obtained through the Better Access in Mental Health Initiative. Current level of Program Participation / UtilisationAll Central Coast GPs are able to access patient referrals via the BOMH - ATAPS program. Referrals will be for patients who meet the criteria listed below:
Co-ordination of the ProgramThe aim of the committee is to provide input and direction into mental health services, programs/initiatives available for General Practitioners and their patients. GP Mental Health initiatives to support GPs with access to:
The committee meets bi-monthly and welcomes feedback, suggestions and comments from service providers & consumers so we can continue to improve access and service provision.
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