Medicare Better Access to Mental Health Care

The Better Access initiative provides clients with improved access to mental health practitioners through Medicare.

10 Sessions per calendar year

Medicare rebates are available for up to ten individual and ten group allied mental health services per calendar year (1 Jan – 31 Dec) to eligible clients.

Referral from GP

To be eligible, the client must be assessed as having a mental disorder and referred by: a GP who is managing the client under a Mental Health Treatment Plan; or a psychiatrist; or a paediatrician.

Review of Treatment Plan from GP

Following the initial referral, ask for another referral from your GP to obtain additional sessions. A review of your Mental Health Care Plan may be undertaken by your GP taking into account the report received from your psychologist at the completion of the first referral.

Please note that the full session fee will be charged upfront. However, you may be able to reclaim a portion of it through a Medicare claim. The out-of-pocket cost usually ranges from $130-$165.

Mind Up is committed to quickly and efficiently processing your Medicare claims. We aim to process claims within 24 hours after each session. It may take 2 to 5 business days for the claim to be fully processed and reflected in your bank account. We appreciate your patience.

It is the client’s responsibility to hold a valid GP referral to be eligible for a Medicare rebate and send a copy to Mind Up via reception@mindup.com.au or fax (03) 9005 2891.