GPs invited to join statewide focus group on mental health discharge policy
General practitioners are invited to contribute to a statewide review of the Discharge Planning and Transfer of Care for Consumers of NSW Health Mental Health Services Policy Directive.
The Mental Health Branch (MHB) of the NSW Ministry of Health is coordinating the review and will host an online focus group for GPs on Tuesday, 26 May, from 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm via Microsoft Teams. Participants will receive $300 remuneration for their time.
Expression of interest now open
GPs can register their interest through an Expression of Interest (EOI) process, which will support a balanced, statewide mix of participants. Those not selected may still be invited to provide written feedback.
EOIs must be submitted by close of business Friday, 15 May.
Supporting a comprehensive review
The focus group will inform updates to the policy directive, with feedback contributing to improving discharge planning and continuity of care for mental health consumers.
Following the session, MHB will provide participants with a summary of feedback for validation. All input will remain de-identified and managed in line with NSW Health privacy requirements.
The validated summary will be shared with the Mental Health Discharge Planning and Transfer of Care Expert Reference Group (ERG), which includes representatives from government, non-government organisations and people with lived experience.
What participants can expect
Pre-reading, including an agenda and discussion paper, will be shared with confirmed attendees
Existing policy documents and a project information sheet are available
A final version of the updated policy will be distributed once published
For more information, contact the Mental Health Branch at MOH-MHB-DSP@health.nsw.gov.au.
Resources
Discharge Planning and Transfer of Care for Consumers of NSW Health Mental Health Services