Referral Assistance
For General Practioners & Psychiatrists
Key Medicare Requirements for a Valid Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP)
Here’s the essential information GPs need to include when preparing a valid MHTP:
1. Eligibility Criteria
The patient must have a diagnosable mental disorder as defined in the DSM-5 (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD).
The GP must assess that the patient will benefit from a structured approach to their mental health care, including access to allied mental health services.
2. Documentation Requirements
A valid MHTP must include:
A. Patient Information
Full name, DOB, Medicare number
B. Diagnosis
DSM-5 diagnosis or clinical description (e.g., “Major depressive disorder”)
C. Assessment
Brief psychosocial history (e.g., stressors, risk factors)
Mental state examination findings
D. Treatment Plan
Goals of treatment (e.g., reduce anxiety symptoms, improve coping skills)
Proposed treatment/support services (e.g., psychologist sessions)
Any prescribed medications
E. Referral Details
Name and provider number of the referred psychologist
Number of sessions being referred for (initially up to 6 sessions)
3. Referral Format
Can be in writing, via a letter or standard referral form
The MHTP itself does not need to be sent to the psychologist—only a valid referral is required.
The referral should indicate:
That it’s under a Mental Health Treatment Plan
The patient’s details and relevant clinical information
The psychologist’s name (or practice) and provider number
Number of sessions referred (initially up to 6, with a review after that)
4. Session Limits and Review
Patients can access up to 10 Medicare-rebated sessions per calendar year
Initial referral: up to 6 sessions
After these, a GP review is required for up to 4 additional sessions
Reviews must include:
Patient progress
Update on treatment goals
Decision to continue or modify treatment
5. Billing Notes
GPs must use item numbers 2715 (for preparing a plan, <40 min) or 2717 (≥40 min)
For reviews, use item 2712