Mental Health Care - Medicare
When experiencing emotional and mental health concerns that do not require emergency help, seeing your doctor is the best way to assess what level of supports and services you may need.
When you see your doctor, they’ll assess what help you need. This could include:
Your doctor might ask you some personal questions to understand your situation. Sometimes it can be hard to talk to others about your mental health. You can read tips for talking to your doctor about mental health on the Healthdirect website.
If your doctor bulk bills, Medicare covers the cost of the appointment. If your doctor doesn’t bulk bill, you’ll need to pay either:
- the full cost
- the difference between what they charge and what Medicare covers
If you pay the full cost, you can make a claim for the amount Medicare covers. Your doctor can also make a direct claim on your behalf.
Mental Health Treatment Plan
A mental health treatment plan lets you claim up to 20 sessions with a mental health professional each calendar year.
To start with, your doctor or psychiatrist will refer you for up to 6 sessions at a time. If you need more, they can refer you for further sessions. Health professionals set their own fees, so Medicare may only cover some of the cost. Ask how much you’ll pay and what you’ll get back from Medicare when you make your appointment. If they bulk bill, you won’t have to pay anything. If you have private health insurance, you may be able to get some money back. You can check with your insurer.
Rural and Remote Services
If you live in a remote area, it might be hard to see a mental health professional. You may be able to have a telehealth video consultation instead. You can claim for video consultation sessions with a mental health professional.
Ask your GP or mental health professional if they offer this service.
