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Practice for sale formSWSPHN is undertaking a review of commissioned mental health service offerings to ensure programs funded by the Department of Health and Aged Care through SWSPHN are suitable for current local need and address current service gaps.
The review will be conducted in a phased approach and will include sector consultation and deeper analysis of local mental health planning data. It will look at how services are accessed, referral processes and work to understand and/or rectify any barriers to accessing care which may exist.
SWSPHN has engaged consultants Lineaire Projects to undertake the first stage of the review which is expected to be completed mid-year. Phases two and three of the review will involve implementing and evaluating the recommendations.
In the past 10 years we have gathered invaluable knowledge and expertise both about the local mental health sector and in commissioning services to meet local need. We recently completed a ‘deep dive’ into local mental health needs and conducted extensive stakeholder consultation as part of our regular health planning and needs assessment cycle. All of this valuable information will be used for this review.
Why are we undertaking this review?
The mental health sector is constantly evolving, as is mental health funding from state and federal governments. Mental health funding structures are under review at both state and national level and must remain agile to ensure we have a model for commissioning mental health services which best supports primary mental healthcare needs.
This review is a timely and routine assessment of our model and service offerings as we look to ensure programs are suitable for current need and address current service gaps in South Western Sydney, find efficiencies and more streamlined referral pathways, and ensure the sustainability of our services in a climate of growing demand for mental health services.
SWSPHN is proud of the work we do in shaping and funding local mental health services, and we are committed to continuous quality improvement and providing our community with access to quality primary mental healthcare which best suits their needs.
How can I participate?
Current SWSPHN commissioned service providers may be contacted by the review team to participate in phase one consultation.
SWSPHN is also working closely with our Mental Health Advisory Committee and our mental health consumer reference group Our Experience Matters during phase one.
Next steps
Phase one will conclude mid-year and SWSPHN will report back to stakeholders and our advisory and reference groups the findings and recommendations.
Phases two and three will involve implementing and evaluating recommendations.
Related resources
- Local Health Forum report – Mental Health
- SWSPHN Deep Dive into Mental Health Findings Report
- About Lineaire Projects
Questions
Contact Acting Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs Manager Pritika Desai: pritika.desai@swsphn.com.au