Managing mental health issues in general practice.

BACKGROUND

The Australian Federal Government has invested in initiatives aimed at enhancing the general practitioner's role in mental health care. Potential benefits for general practice include better remuneration for longer consultations and improved access to support from other mental health care professionals.

OBJECTIVE

This article discusses some of the practical strategies that may assist GPs to deliver quality mental health care in the context of the Australian Commonwealth Government's new 'Better Access to Mental Health Care' initiative.

DISCUSSION

General practitioners have a vital role to play in supporting their patients experiencing mental health issues. There are many practical strategies that have the potential improve the delivery of primary mental health care, but further research is required to elucidate optimal approaches.