Page 613 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 11 February 2009
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Health ACT is providing a very high standard of service, with evidence of substantial improvements over the last four years. The survey team also strongly commended the innovative models of care in Mental Health ACT, such as the step-up, step-down facilities for youths and adults and the programs addressing general health and wellbeing, such as positives steps and the better general health program. The surveyors also went on to comment on the ACT’s participation in the national project aimed at reducing the use of seclusion and restraint and noted that this has resulted in substantial improvements in this area.
The integrated risk management approach utilised within Mental Health ACT is the most advanced and innovative approach seen in any mental health service in this country. The recovery focus that Mental Health ACT has adopted represents contemporary practice. The implementation of this within standard operational practices in the service was described as leading edge in Australia. The electronic mental health record system used in Mental Health ACT was described as outstanding and clearly a leader in Australia. The survey team has described Mental Health ACT as leading edge, at the forefront and a leader in the country. I think that is something to be noted.
There is an exceptional level of consumer and carer participation within the service, including on privileged committees. The surveyors also noted that the consumer and carer participation framework is a living document. Madam Assistant Speaker, this is an outstanding report from the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards on our mental health service. The minister and the staff within ACT Health need to be congratulated.
Members would be aware that the ACT is active in the national agenda as well. I would like to advise members on the future national vision and policy directions of mental health of the Rudd Labor government. The national mental health policy, originally published in 1992, sets out key policy principles and directions for mental health services reform and a revised mental health policy will be released in 2009. The national mental health policy contains 10 policy directions. Its focus and future vision include directions such as rights and responsibilities of people with mental health problems and mental illness, mental health promotion, preventing mental health problems and mental illness, reducing suicide risk, early intervention, access to the right care at the right time, inclusion, carers, workforce and quality outcomes using evidence-based and best-based practice.
The underlying principles of the policy are to provide for the mental health and wellbeing of the Australian community and to prevent, where possible, the development of mental illness and mental health problems. Moreover, it is to reduce the impact of mental illness and mental health problems, including the effects of the stigma on individuals, families and community. Finally, this policy recognises the importance of a connective-care system—a consumer and recovery focus—where people are supported to engage with the community and participate to their full potential. It also recognises the importance of physical health to be included in the treatment of mental illness.
Another key document is the fourth national health plan, which is under development. The state and territory directors of mental health are conducting local consultation.
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