AMA calls for better mental health policies
AMA President Dr Tony Bartone has called on the major parties to announce more comprehensive mental health policies leading up to the election.
“The AMA acknowledges that the Coalition and Labor have made funding commitments and investments, but the reality is that there is still no leadership in funding evidence-based policies across Australia that help people access the services and supports they need,” Dr Bartone said.
“A one-size-fits-all approach will not work. The uniqueness of mental illness means we need specific and detailed measures appropriate for all people, no matter their age or where they live.
“We need to give hope to the millions of Australians with lived experience of mental illness, along with their families, friends and carers.
“The mental health workforce is being let down by the lack of an overarching mental health ‘architecture’ or agreed national design that facilitates prevention or proper care for people with mental illness.”
The AMA is calling for well-funded strategies to meet the complex mental health needs of all Australians.
Read more about the AMA’s mental health plan here.
The AMA’s Key Health Issues for the 2019 Federal Election is available here.
