New National Medicare Mental Health eReferral SmartForm IS LIVE

The National Medicare Mental Health eReferral SmartForm (National eReferral SmartForm) IS NOW LIVE!

It is automatically enabled via HealthLink-enabled GP software, no setup required. 

Uptake of eReferrals has been exceptionally strong and one of the most successful shifts we’ve seen across our referral pathways.

Referrals can stall if the patient does not answer the Medicare Mental Health Line call, so please prepare them to expect contact.

Clear, specific referral information, including naming the service or program, will help avoid delays and support timely access to care.

This is the preferred referral pathway for referring to CESPHN funded mental health services including:

• Bondi and Canterbury Medicare Mental Health Centres.
• Psychological Support Services (PSS).
• Telehealth Psychiatry Service (TPS).
• Primary Integrated Care Supports (PICS)
• From 1 July Help aHead (the integrated mental health hubs).

How To

Please follow the steps below to ensure referrals are submitted correctly and directed to the appropriate service.

1. Open the patient record in your clinical software.
2. Navigate to HealthLink SmartForms.
3. Select Medicare Mental Health (1800 595 212).
4. When prompted, select NSW – Central and Eastern Sydney PHN from the Service List.
5. Complete all required fields and submit the form.
6. Monitor your results inbox for referral status updates and responses.

Important

• Once the Medicare Mental Health (MMH) form is selected, you must choose the correct region from the Service List to ensure the referral is received by the appropriate service.

Referral flow chart:

Things to remember

• National eReferral goes to the Medicare Mental Health Phone Line (MMHPL), not directly to CESPHN.
• MMHPL clinician calls patient first to complete the referral process before it comes to the CESPHN mental health intake team. If this step is not completed a referral does not proceed.
• If you do not name a CESPHN-commissioned service, the CESPHN team will recommend suitable services, and the client will choose their preferred option.
• The eReferral does not allow selecting a specific service so please add what is needed it to “Reason for referral.” Such as:
• Name of CESPHN service you are requesting.
• Presenting concerns and referral goals.
• Preferred provider if applicable for PSS.
• DON’T FORET TO ADD
• Formal Psychiatrist Referral letter for TPS referrals.
• Mental Health Treatment Plan for PSS referrals.
• Any extra mental health information will save time, such as LHD discharge summaries.

More information:

• FAQ page includes a short Training Video, multiple medical software guides, and technical support.
• The CESPHN Mental Health Line Ph 1300 170 554, is available to provide more information and support on changes, referral process and services.
• If you are unable to access this SmartForm or having trouble with HealthLink please contact your CESPHN Digital Health Officer or email: digitalhealth@cesphn.com.au