Join us for GP training in the Initial Assessment and Referral Decision Support Tool (IAR-DST) for Mental Healthcare. GPs practicing in the CESPHN region are eligible to receive a $300 payment for completion of this training and associated surveys.

The National IAR Guidance and IAR-DST were developed by the Australian Department of Health and is designed to provide:

• Advice relating to initial assessment and intake (the eight domains).
• A description of evidence-based services by level of intensity (the five levels of care).
• Criteria to assist with matching an individual to a level of care that is most likely to meet the individual’s treatment needs and recovery goals (the IAR-DST).

The training will focus on:

1. Introduction to IAR and the development of the National Guidance.
2. Orientation to the domains, levels of care, and decision support tool.
3. Clinical judgement and supported decision-making.
4. Application of the IAR in assessment and intake settings (practical activity using a scenario).

Learning Outcomes are:

• Participants are familiar with the principles underpinning the national approach to stepped care.
• Participants have an awareness of and confidence in the IAR development process.
• Participants can apply the IAR Guidance in practice settings, using the domains and the decision support tool to generate a recommended level of care.
• Participants understand the levels of care and can determine regional services matched against the levels of care.
• Participants understand the principles related to clinical decision making and consumer choice and can practice following these principles using supported decision-making strategies.

Attendees must view the IAR-DST Workshop 1 via Online Learning and complete the survey prior to attending this session. Details on how to access Workshop 1 will be included in the registration confirmation email.

It is a requirement of attendance that you read through the vignettes prior to this workshop. They can be found here

Presenter – CESPHN IAR-DST Training and Support Officer Amy Steven will facilitate the training. Amy has extensive knowledge of mental health presentations and interrelated complexities in treatment and safety planning. She is a qualified counsellor and her most recent work has been in the AOD sector facilitating groups and delivering training.

Target audience: GPs in the CESPHN region only

*Please note GP Registrars who wish to register for CPD events and do not have a member number will need to contact the CPD Department on 1300 986 991