By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A new mental-health care model in Melbourne’s South East is designed to reach those slipping through the cracks.
The services are described as more “person-centred’ with improved care for people with mild, moderate or severe conditions.
According to South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network , the model will allow people to more easily step up or step down into different intensities of service.
There will be more accessible after-hours appointments and services will be more tailored to the individual.
“The new service models are truly innovative and designed to reach people who have been missing out on the mental health support they need,” SEMPHN chief executive Elizabeth Deveny said.
The services were launched after 18 months’ consultation with consumers, carers, health professionals and service providers, she said.
La Trobe MP Jason Wood said the new services were in line with “best practice mental health guidelines”.
“These services are flexible, with the consumer able to step up or step down to different intensity support as their needs change over time.
“It will now be easier than ever for local residents to access the right mental health service and have a single point of contact for support.”
The services are targeted to people with Health Care Cards or who can’t afford similar care, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, residents in aged care, people with perinatal depression and people who experienced family violence.
They include counselling in individual, family or group settings, clinical nursing, family support, care co-ordination and improving access to psychiatric and psychological care.
The new services were awarded by open tender to EACH and Mentis Assist to operate in Casey.FMC Mediation and Counselling will run services in Cardinia.
The funding is part of a $11 million federal package for mental health services in the region.
Enquiries: SEMPHN’s Mental Health Intake, 1800 862 363 during business hours.
