Better Access referrals: a quick refresher
Are you referring patients to a psychologist, eligible social worker or eligible occupational therapist under the Better Access initiative?
Mental health service providers have advised that referrals occasionally arrive without all the information required under MBS requirements. When this occurs, additional follow-up may be needed before services can commence, potentially delaying access to care.
To support timely access to Better Access services, please ensure referral letters include the information required under MBS Note MN.6.3.
A Mental Health Treatment Plan does not replace a referral letter. Patients with a Mental Health Treatment Plan still require a referral from their GP to access services provided by a psychologist, eligible social worker or eligible occupational therapist under the Better Access initiative.
Referral letters must include:
Patient's name, date of birth and address
Symptoms or diagnosis
Current medications
Number of services referred for
Confirmation of whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan or Psychiatrist Assessment and Management Plan has been prepared
Referring practitioner's signature (electronic signatures accepted)
Date of referral
With the patient's consent, a copy of the Mental Health Treatment Plan may also be attached.
Key reminders
Eligible patients can access up to 10 Medicare-subsidised mental health services per calendar year.
Services are provided as an initial course of up to six sessions, followed by a subsequent course of treatment up to the annual limit.
When all referred services have been used, a new referral letter is required.
A new Mental Health Treatment Plan is not required for subsequent referrals unless a review or renewal is clinically indicated.