May 29 program explores Better Access mental health care initiative
May 14, 2007A new Rural Health Education Foundation program airing on May 29 explores the Australian Government’s Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative.
Better Access to Mental Health Care, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, discusses what the Initiative means for the General Practitioners, paediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and occupational therapists who assist people with mental health disorders.
The program also employs case studies to illustrate the practical application of the Better Access Initiative in the clinical setting.
Program presented by experts
The all new program, which airs on the Foundation’s satellite network at 8pm (EST) on Tuesday 29 May, with a repeat at 12.30pm on Friday 1 June, brings together an expert panel to discuss the consequences for rural and remote GPs and allied health practitioners.
The panel comprises Professor Harvey Whiteford (pictured above), the Principal Mental Health Advisor to the Australian Government, along with psychologist Tony Franklin (pictured right), rural GP Dr George Somers, social worker Deborah McIntyre and rural GP Dr Andrew Binns. The 75 minute program is facilitated by Dr Norman Swan.
About the Better Access Initiative
Better Access to Mental Health Care, a five year Initiative introduced by the Australian Government Department of Health & Ageing, provides health care professionals with more tools and options to help recognise, address and support mental health illness in Australia.
Specifically, a new series of Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) item numbers creates enhanced referral pathways for patients.
Other viewing options
This program is available for purchase on DVD and VHS video and, after the initial satellite broadcasts, can be experienced online via video webstreaming and audio podcast.
More information
For full details of the program, visit the Better Access to Mental Health Care program page.
