Question 1

Who would benefit from seeing an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker?

Accepted Answer

Patients with mental health issues, including but not limited to:
Depression and other mood disorders
Anxiety disorders
Personality disorders
Eating disorders
Suicidal thoughts
Relationship problems
Life crises
Adjustment issues
Trauma
Family conflicts
Accredited Mental Health Social Workers (AMHSW) understand mental disorders, and have particular training, skill and expertise to assess and offer treatment. AMHSW are also experienced in working collaboratively with other health professionals.

This Australian Association of Social Work page explains the circumstances and programs that can benefit a patient.

Question 2

How to refer to an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker?

Accepted Answer

Referrals can be made by GPs, Paediatricians and Psychiatrists.
Formulate a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan* for your patient.
Write a referral letter for your patient, who can then contact me to make an appointment.
*You are eligible for a rebate fee from Medicare to complete this plan. The GP Mental Health Treatment Items in preparing the MHCP are (Items 2700 to 2717).

Question 3

What are the MBS codes for allied mental health services under the Better Access Initiative?

Accepted Answer

As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, I am  recognized under Medicare to provide counselling to patients referred by GP’s. Under the Better Access initiative MBS items provide Medicare benefits for the following allied mental health services:
focussed psychological strategies – allied mental health (items 80100 to 80171) - provided by eligible psychologists, occupational therapists and social workers.
80150, 80155, 80160, 80165 and 80170 for provision of FPS services by a social worker; and
80151, 80161 and 80171 for provision of video conference FPS services by a social worker.

Question 4

What feedback will I receive?

Accepted Answer

You will receive a written report providing information on:
 
Assessments carried out
Treatment provided
Recommendations for future management

Questions for GPs

Who would benefit from seeing an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker?

How to refer to an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker?

What are the MBS codes for allied mental health services under the Better Access Initiative?

What feedback will I receive?