Referred Assessment and Management Plans
29th June 2005
By: ADGP

From 1 May 2005, the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) contains new item numbers for psychiatrists to support the provision of a comprehensive assessment and management plan on referral from a GP.

The new items (291 and 293) enable psychiatrists to provide consultant specialist advice to GPs who currently undertake, and are prepared to continue, the ongoing management of patients with mental health disorders.

Referral by a GP 'for a 291' does not transfer responsibility for the ongoing management of the patient to the psychiatrist, but provides another mechanism to support continued management in the general practice.

A referral for an assessment and management plan might occur in situations where, for example, response to current treatment has been less than satisfactory, or where the managing GP feels that specialist input would enhance management and prospects for a better mental health outcome.

Click on the links below to access key documents:

GP to Psychiatrist Referral Form - MBS Item Number 291

Best Practice GP-Psychiatrist Liaison Model and Flow Chart

MBS Items 291 and 293 - Frequently Asked Questions

RANZCP Referred Patient Assessment and Management Plan Guidelines

Amended 3-Step Mental Health Process and new Psychiatry item descriptors    This link will take you to the 1 MAY 2005 SUPPLEMENT to MEDICARE BENEFITS SCHEDULE - 1 NOVEMBER 2004.   In the left hand column, you will see :  AMENDMENTS TO GENERAL MEDICAL SERVICES.  Under this section, go to ITEM LIST (right at the bottom and the 'Group A8-Consultant Psychiatrist Attendance to which no other Item Applies' descriptor may be found at the top of the list.

The Psychiatrist Database is now accessible.   You will need to use your own RACGP login and password to access it.

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