MBS Items 2715 and 2717 support consultations focused on creating mental health care plans. MBS 2715 applies to consultations lasting 20 to 40 minutes, while MBS 2717 covers consultations longer than 40 minutes. These plans enable patients to access critical mental health services, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and allied health professionals.
Requirements for a Mental Health Care Plan
1. Obtain Patient Consent
- Ensure the patient understands the purpose of the care plan and agrees to participate.
2. Take a Comprehensive History
- Document relevant medical and family history along with other clinically significant information.
3. Use an Outcome Measurement Tool
- Tools such as the K10 or DAS21 help assess the patient’s condition. Use discretion with patients like young children who may not benefit from these assessments.
4. Formulation and Diagnosis
- Provide a provisional or formal diagnosis. If the diagnosis is unclear, the plan can still be used to help the patient access needed services.
5. Set Treatment Goals
- Develop SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) that address the patient’s needs and desired outcomes.
6. Provide Education and Preventive Measures
- Educate the patient about their condition and offer guidance on preventive measures to support their well-being.
7. Conduct Crisis Intervention and Risk Assessment
- Address any immediate risks or crises the patient may be experiencing.
8. Coordinate Referrals and Reviews
- Arrange follow-up care with relevant mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists.
Why Are Mental Health Care Plans Important?
MBS Items 2715 and 2717 empower GPs to provide structured mental health care, ensuring patients receive the tailored support they need. These plans:
- Enable access to essential mental health services.
- Provide a clear framework for assessing and managing mental health conditions.
- Foster collaboration between GPs and other healthcare providers, improving care coordination and patient outcomes.
Conclusion
MBS Items 2715 and 2717 are essential tools for GPs to develop personalised mental health care plans. By following the structured requirements, including patient consent, comprehensive history-taking, goal setting, and referrals, GPs can improve access to services and deliver effective, collaborative care for patients with mental health conditions.
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