Medibank’s submission to the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System

Mental health is a significant personal, societal, economic and health issue within our country.

Unfortunately, it comes with unavoidable costs for families, individuals and the community. Despite Australia spending around $29 billion a year on mental health, the prevalence of mental illness sadly remains high.

Medibank was provided the opportunity to contribute to the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, which is looking into ways to provide Victorians with an improved mental health system so they can experience their best mental health.

Medibank’s Group Executive Healthcare and Strategy, and psychiatrist, Dr Andrew Wilson said Medibank is proud to have close relationships with organisations such as 1800RESPECT, Beyond Blue and MHConnext.

“These organisations provide world-class mental health and family violence and sexual assault support services,” Dr Wilson said.

“However, around two-thirds of people with mental illness are still not seeking or receiving appropriate treatment. For those that do seek and receive treatment, their needs are not consistently met, and they are less satisfied with mental health services than consumers of other health services.”

Medibank has proposed that the Royal Commission consider a trial pilot model of mental healthcare service that is different from the status quo and provides a clearer, more coordinated and accessible pathway to address the needs for people experiencing mental health issues.

In addition, Medibank recommended that the Royal Commission consider immediate reform to the current telephone support system for people in Victoria seeking mental healthcare options, so that there is a centralised system for individuals and their families.

“This Royal Commission is incredibly important so we can identify improved pathways for Victorians seeking better mental health, and so they can have effective access to help if they need it,” Dr Wilson said.