Mental health services harder to access from tomorrow
The Government’s savage cuts to mental health services available through general practice come into effect tomorrow, 1 November.
Under changes announced in the May Budget, the Government is cutting Medicare rebates for GP mental health services under the Better Access Program by up to 46 per cent.
AMA President, Dr Steve Hambleton, said today that around one million patients each year benefit from GP mental health services funded through Medicare.
“The changes that come into effect tomorrow will slash over $400 million from these key mental health services,” Dr Hambleton said.
“This means that Medicare will treat mental health issues less favourably than physical ailments.
“These cuts have been the subject of a major Senate Community Affairs Committee Inquiry, which has received over 1100 submissions from concerned organisations, health professionals, families and individuals affected by mental illness, and the general public.
“The Committee is due to deliver its report tomorrow during Melbourne Cup celebrations.
“Despite overwhelming opposition from patients and most professional groups, the Government is going ahead with these cuts to patients’ Medicare entitlements.
“The Government has also ignored an independent evaluation showing that the Better Access program is cost effective and is making a positive difference to the lives of people suffering from mental illness.
“The AMA wants a 12 month moratorium on the cuts to allow for proper consultation with the medical profession, patients affected by the cuts, and the community,” Dr Hambleton said.
31 October 2011
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