COVID-19 pandemic and mental health in general practice

The General Practice Mental Health Standards Collaboration (GPMHSC) acknowledges GPs are currently facing challenges during these unprecedented times.

We would like to extend our appreciation for your continued efforts to protect members of our community, especially those who are vulnerable and at high risk.

We have put together a summary of some important information on how GPs can best help the mental health and wellbeing of their patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Telehealth

The Federal Government has released temporary Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item numbers for the provision of telehealth (videoconferencing and phone) consultations. These item numbers must be bulk billed and used where clinically safe and appropriate.

Visit our website for additional information on the new mental health MBS items for telehealth.

Mental health training and education

The GPMHSC is committed to working with our member organisations to ensure the impact on training and educational opportunities are minimised. This includes encouraging accredited training providers to develop education via distance learning.

Visit our website to access a list of accredited training and educational activities.

Focussed Psychological Strategies (FPS)

The GPMHSC would like to invite GPs who have completed mental health training and further education in cognitive behavioural therapy or interpersonal therapy to apply for exemption from accredited training in order to register with Medicare as a FPS provider.

Download the application for exemption from FPS Skills Training form.

Resources

Visit our website for additional resources and fact sheets on the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on mental health and wellbeing.
 

Need assistance?

You can stay connected by emailing the GPMHSC Secretariat at gpmhsc@racgp.org.au or calling 03 8699 0556.