If you think you need a Mental Health Care Plan, please book a comprehensive (30 minute) consultation with your GP. Alternatively, your GP might suggest developing a care plan if he/she/they thinks you might benefit from one.

The care plan may take one or two appointments to develop based on your current problem and health.

Your plan, once completed and billed, will allow access to rebated psychological counselling services with registered providers. You and your GP will decide who would be best for you to see. There may still be an ‘out of pocket payment’ to see your Counsellor, however you will have access to up to 10 rebated visits with a counsellor per year.

Chronic Disease Management Plans are available to patients who have an illness expected to last longer than six months. Developing a plan helps both you and your GP to set goals for your health and plan your care proactively.

At The Garden Family Medical Clinic, plans are discussed with your GP and then written in conjunction with our practice nurse.

If you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan, you may also benefit from a Team Care Arrangement. This allows you and your GP to develop a team of practitioners to help you achieve your health goals. Your team must consist of at least three clinicians – your GP, your specialist (if you have one), and any Allied Health practitioners, who could help you with your goals.

When you have a Team Care Arrangement, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates (up to five per calendar year) to see the Allied Health practitioners who are on your team. These referrals are developed during your care plan appointment with the practice nurse.