Supporting patients in practice with mental health and wellbeing this R U OK Day

In support of enhancing our mental health and wellbeing, R U OK Day seeks to empower people to reach out to family, friends and colleagues and encourage conversations that start with “are you okay?”.

Primary Sense reporting can support continuous quality improvement (CQI) activities with a focus on mental health by generating a report that identifies patients with mental health conditions, and/or who may be eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan or review.

HealthPathways can then provide detailed guidance for assessing and managing a patient with a mental health condition, including information about making requests to local services.

GPs who would like to increase their confidence in managing patient mental health in primary care by adding structure to mental health consultations can undertake Brisbane North PHN Initial Assessment and Referral decision support tool (IAR-DST) training. IAR is designed to connect patients with the right mental health service or supports, quickly. GPs can also connect with the GP Psychiatry Support Line for further support and advice managing these patients.

The national Head to Health network has a wealth of resources for patients, carers and health professionals, including specific training pathways for clinicians. Anyone can call the Head to Health phone service on 1800 595 212 for information, support and to access services including referrals to a range of PHN-funded mental health services which are free for eligible people.

Our My Mental Health website, featuring a service navigation webchat, is an online resource for health professionals and people residing in the North Brisbane and Moreton Bay region who are seeking services or supports, including specialised support for people who might be thinking about suicide.

If you would like further support utilising Primary Sense reports for CQI activities, or require refresher training in Primary Sense, contact practicesupport@brisbanenorthphn.org.au.

For crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, MH Call on 1300 642 255 or in an emergency, always call 000.