Mental Health Treatment Plans
What is a Mental Health Care Plan / Mental Health Treatment Plan?
A Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP), formerly known as a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP), is a structured document created by a General Practitioner (GP) under the Better Access Initiative to outline the treatment and support for individuals experiencing mental health issues. It typically includes an assessment of the person’s mental health, goals for treatment, the types of therapy or services recommended, and the roles of various healthcare providers involved in the care.
In Australia, a Mental Health Treatment Plan enables patients to access Medicare rebates for services from Medicare Registered allied health providers such as psychologists, social workers, and occupational therapists. This plan supports coordinated care and aims to improve mental health outcomes through early intervention and ongoing support.
How can you get a plan?
To get a Mental Health Treatment Plan, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your GP. During this consultation, discuss your mental health concerns openly. The GP will assess your condition and determine whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan is appropriate. If so, the GP will develop the plan in consultation with you, set treatment goals, and outline referrals to suitable mental health professionals. This process may take longer than a standard consult, so it’s worth confirming with your GP’s clinic prior to booking the appointment. Once the plan is in place, you can access Medicare-rebated sessions with allied health practitioners, usually this is for an initial 6 sessions, but can be extended for up to 10 appointments per calendar year.