Considerations for primary care
The task of commissioning health services can be challenging, but also rewarding as it provides a real opportunity to improve lives. This is particularly pertinent in youth mental health where quality services and interventions help support young people’s recovery and reduce their chances of long-term mental ill-health.
Considerations for primary care has been developed to support Primary Health Network (PHN) staff to commission appropriate, high-quality, youth mental health services. It is a tool to assist PHNs as they work to design evidence-based solutions that meet the needs of local young people experiencing mental health challenges – particularly those with severe and complex mental illness.
The document provides a framework for thinking about youth mental health services and programs and poses various considerations for PHNs. Examples of good practice are included throughout, as well as background information on a range of relevant topics and links to additional information and resources.