Cut-back to Medicare Better Access Program

[Sventek]

I'm obviously biased with regard to this, but I am very concerned that this is going to adversely affect a lot of people who need the help and support of a psychologist. Even worse, it's going to affect the people who need it most. If you agree that this is ill-advised and just plain stupid, then can I ask you to consider adding 3 votes here: 'Better Access' to Psychologists. There's also some more information here: Australian Psychological Society : Campaign against Better Access funding cuts and here: Tell the Minister!. TIA.

[mekon]

Yep, it's nowhere near enough. Surely the govt would realise the benefits of having a population with healthy minds and souls. Voted and emailed. I wish they'd also more frequently review the medications for addition to the PBS.

Very much an government initiative of false economy.

[gordonleslie]

Hmm - i would be interested to know where you would recommend the cuts to take place if they are not cut here?

Or do we follow Greece? (i am biased being both sound minded and on private health)

[Sventek]

This isn't an area that should be cut at all. The funding has been hopelessly inadequate for years. Now, just when things start to improve, they want to go backwards.

[thegraeman]

Done. This scheme helped me immensely when my depression was spiralling out of control. I went from a pretty low functioning member of society for several decades, unable to hold down a job, to having what I consider a decent career and now going to Uni to further that.

So if anyone who has good mental health and private health insurance wants to know why they should support it - I am a good case in point. Before the help, I was a waste of space, now I am a tax paying contributor to Australian society. All for the cost of 18 sessions with a psych. How's that for a reason?

[Sventek]

Wow. Glad it worked so well for you. Congrats on the hard work.

[thegraeman]

Yep, three years as a disability care worker, and now a nursing student. Things are good. Not easy, but good.