Get your Mental Health Care Plan and Medicare rebates through telehealth. Learn about online GP services, costs, and how to access psychological therapy with Medicare support.
A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is a structured support plan developed between you and a GP to manage mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other conditions. It enables you to access Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year with eligible mental health professionals.
This comprehensive guide explains how to obtain your MHCP through online GP services, the costs involved, Medicare rebates available, and reviews the most popular telehealth platforms offering these services across Australia.
A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is essential for accessing affordable psychological therapy in Australia. Here's what you need to know:
Getting an MHCP online is straightforward and convenient. Follow these four simple steps:
Choose an online GP service that offers MHCP assessments. Many platforms offer bulk-billed appointments for eligible Medicare cardholders, making it affordable and accessible.
During the 20-30 minute appointment, discuss your mental health concerns openly. The GP will assess your situation and determine if an MHCP is appropriate for your needs.
If eligible, the GP will create an MHCP and provide a referral to a mental health professional. This enables Medicare rebates for your therapy sessions.
Use the referral to schedule sessions with a psychologist or other mental health professional. You can choose any registered professional who accepts Medicare referrals.
Understanding the costs involved helps you budget for your mental health care. Here's what you can expect to pay:
Many online GP platforms offer bulk-billed MHCP appointments for eligible Medicare cardholders, resulting in no out-of-pocket costs.
Some services may charge a fee (e.g., $120), with Medicare rebates covering most of the cost, leaving a small out-of-pocket expense.
Several reputable online GP services offer Mental Health Care Plan assessments. Here are the most popular options:
Offers bulk-billed MHCP appointments for eligible patients. Quick booking system with experienced GPs specializing in mental health assessments.
Provides 100% bulk-billed mental health assessments. Focus on accessible mental health care with no waiting lists.
Connects you with GPs for MHCPs. Both bulk-billed and privately billed options available with a large network of doctors.
Offers MHCP assessments with fees partially covered by Medicare rebates. Same-day appointments often available.
Comprehensive mental health platform offering treatment plans and direct access to psychologists and psychiatrists.
Facilitates online consultations for MHCPs with quick turnaround. Focus on convenience and efficiency.
Provides online MHCPs with options for Medicare rebates. Experienced telehealth platform with mental health focus.
Delivers MHCPs online with flexibility in choosing your mental health professional. Comprehensive care coordination.
If you are experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, grief, or other psychological concerns, you may be eligible. A GP will assess your situation during the consultation and determine if an MHCP is appropriate for your needs.
Medicare covers up to 10 individual therapy sessions per calendar year. Initially, you may be referred for 6 sessions, with an additional 4 sessions available after a review with your GP. This review helps assess your progress and determine if further sessions are needed.
Yes, you can choose any registered mental health professional who accepts Medicare referrals. This includes psychologists, social workers, and occupational therapists. You're not limited to a specific provider and can shop around to find the right fit.
An MHCP does not expire, but you are entitled to a new plan every 12 months if needed. The 10-session limit resets each calendar year, so you can access another 10 sessions with a new or updated plan.
You can use any of the online GP services listed above to obtain an MHCP. These telehealth platforms are specifically designed to help people access mental health care plans without needing an existing relationship with a GP.
Most online consultations take 20-30 minutes, and you'll typically receive your MHCP and referral immediately after the consultation or within 24 hours. Some services offer same-day appointments.
Start your mental health journey today with an online GP consultation and find qualified therapists in your area.
Find a TherapistMedical Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding mental health concerns or treatment options. Ensure you have a valid Medicare card to access rebates. Costs and services may vary between providers.