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Medicare should fund general practice psychologists : Comments
By Stephen Leeder, published 10/2/2006There's a simple way to meet the challenge of community mental health care - a willingness to work more closely together across professions.
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Posted by Atman, Sunday, 5 March 2006 12:22:27 PM
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In case you haven't caught up on the latest - Shonga I know you will be interested...
Medicare WILL be dramatically expanded to allow more mentally ill people to see psychologists on referral from the family doctor as part of a $1.5 billion plan to tackle the nation's mental health crisis." See details in article in the Australian. (http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/ Of course it has to come in writing yet...but it is good news for many people and I think intelligence has prevailed - see my previous post Posted by Coraliz, Wednesday, 22 March 2006 9:38:16 PM
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Psychiatrists (Medicare) treat only a small minority of those with mental health problems principally those with serious Psychiatric illness who need medication.
People with anxiety, depression, panic disorder, children with behavioural problems, relationship problems etc are all much more prevalent and are better treated by Psychologists. This is indisputable. Unfortunately, you have to pay $100 an hour (or more) out of your own pocket or get on a long Govt queue.
Some companies pay for this service now because of its proven cost effectiveness. The Goverment lags behind.
Anyone who argues against Stephen Leeders proposition either lacks knowledge, has a vested interest in the status quo or is just a simple fool.
This move would save billions in avoided lost work time/improved school performance/improved family functioning. Believe me I know!