Older Person Community Mental Health Service (OPMHT)

How to refer your patient

Referrals must be made to Mental Health Regional Triage Service 1300 363 788.

It provides 24-hour access to mental health services across the region and is the single point of initial contact.

Referring persons are asked to provide the following information:

Any recent presentation/concerns and any new findings and recent medical investigations (Pathology, neurological testing/reports, Histology and Medical Imaging).

A list of current medications (if prescribed), relevant patient history, relevant family history, any other information pertinent and that may assist in decision making with patient, family/carer about their care and treatment.

Clinical service overview

Older Persons Mental Health Service provides advice on care and treatment, offers carer and family support, provides case management services and in-patient admissions where appropriate. When a person requires treatment, this will be undertaken, where possible, in the person’s own home. The Aged Persons Mental Health Team will assist by providing ongoing monitoring of the treatment and also provide support to the patient and carers.

The functions of the OPMHT include: An assessment of the individual’s psychological state, physical condition, cognitive function, social circumstances and home environment is made.

This process provides a contextualized understanding of any problems being experienced. Following assessment, the team consults with the patient, family, general practitioner, caregivers and significant others to determine the most appropriate course of treatment or assistance that is required. Following a full assessment the team may determine that the person requires to be seen by a psychiatrist. Access to the psychiatrist and other medical staff is organised by a case manager.

Crisis assessment and support is available through the duty worker when required. Where a person receives treatment from OPMHT, a case manager will be allocated to co-ordinate and facilitate that treatment. The case manager conducts a comprehensive assessment and develops a management plan in consultation with the patient, their family and significant others. If a person is unable to be treated in the less restrictive environment and requires hospitalisation, admission to the inpatient unit will be considered, which is organised through the community team, and/or OPAU and mental health triage service.

Regional Services