Objective 10.2:
Align with our stepped care framework through improved integration between psychological therapies and community services
Action 10.2.2:
Identify options for improving integration between community services and psychological therapies
Guided by insights gained from the 2018 Psychological Therapies (Brisbane MIND) Review process, the PHN revised the Brisbane MIND service model to embed integrated and wraparound support. This differed significantly from the widespread fee-for-service model that had been operational in the region for some time.
The fee-for-service arrangements were considered a barrier to providers reaching out, and connecting to other parts of the system.
The subsequent procurement strategy required potential service providers to demonstrate their commitment and capability to delivering integrated care, including demonstrating how would connect with other organisations providing psychosocial supports. Examples included consortium and partnership approaches to delivering services, as well as co-location of services.
Key achievements
The new Brisbane MIND service model is still very new, but early indications suggest that people who access the service can more easily connect to other supports whilst receiving Brisbane MIND services. Also, service providers report that the new service model, with block funding instead of fee-for-service arrangements, mean that they are supported to spend the important and necessary time establishing relationships with other service providers – which facilitates connections for people needing to access complimentary services. Building strong referral pathways based on knowledge, respect and trust takes time – and the new service model allows for this.
Key Learnings
The value of integrated support is difficult to quantify, and is not picked up by the routine administration of mandatory outcome tools. The PHN is committed to understanding the value of improvements in integration, and once known, will use these learnings to guide future commissioning approaches.
What’s Next?
The PHN will work alongside service providers to increase awareness of the factors that support improvements in integration between community-based services and psychological therapies.
