Referring a Patient for Group Sessions
Patients with a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) are entitled to Medicare supported sessions for both one-to-one and group psychological therapy as part of the same plan under the Better Access initiative.
Session Entitlements
- Up to 10 individual (one-to-one) sessions per calendar year
- Up to 10 group therapy sessions per calendar year
- This means a patient can access up to 20 sessions in total (10 individual + 10 group) each year
Review Requirement
- After the first 6 sessions (individual or group), the plan must be reviewed by the GP before further sessions can be accessed
Referral Letter Requirements
- Patient Details: Full name, date of birth, and contact information
- Diagnosis: Specify the mental health condition being treated (e.g., anxiety, depression, etc.)
- Mental Health Treatment Plan: Indicate that a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) has been prepared for the patient
- Request for Sessions: Clearly state that you are referring the patient for both one-to-one and group psychological therapy sessions under Medicare
- Number of Sessions: Specify the number of sessions being requested (up to 10 each per calendar year)
- Referring GP Details: Your name, provider number, practice address, and contact information
- Date and Signature: Ensure the referral is signed and dated
A sample referral statement might read:
"I am referring [Patient Name] for both individual and group psychological therapy sessions under Medicare. A Mental Health Treatment Plan has been completed. Please provide up to 10 individual and 10 group sessions as clinically indicated."
If you have any questions about group sessions or the referral process, please contact our clinic. We are happy to assist you and your patients in accessing appropriate care.