New Tele-Mental Health service free for all Queenslanders

New Tele-Mental Health service free for all Queenslanders

Watch the official launch held on Zoom.

As of 5 August, Queenslanders will have access to a state-wide multi-disciplinary and free mental healthcare program delivered by a dedicated team of allied healthcare professionals.

White Cloud Foundation founder, Professor Adam Scott said new Tele-Mental Health Service is all about bringing greater care to all Queenslanders, particularly those in rural, remote and regional Queensland.

“This is one of the most comprehensive virtual mental healthcare programs in Australia and it’s now available to all Queenslanders, no matter where they live, free of charge in their own home,” Prof. Scott said.

“We have assembled a talented team of 40 allied healthcare professionals, from psychologists, social workers to exercise physiologists, mental health nurses and dieticians to provide tailored, holistic, clinical and practical care to treat depression from multiple fronts.

“This exceptional and experienced group of specialists will work together to develop individualised treatment plans to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety, reduce risk factors, build resilience and provide patients with strategies to better manage their mental and emotional health.

“The best part is it will all happen via technology using tele-health consultations (via phone or video conferencing) so Queenslanders can access the right treatment at the right time and at the right place.”

Prof. Scott said the White Cloud solution ultimately removes the barriers to access mental healthcare and means no longer do rural and regional residents need to travel or face a long wait to see a someone, in their time of need.

“This has been years in the making and is tried, tested and works. I’m so are pleased to replicate the success of my world renowned Tele-Cardiac Investigations Solution, which has saved countless lives and bridges the gap that exists between the city, regional centres and the bush,” he said.

“Anyone can access this service direct by calling 07 3155 3456 (for the cost of a local call), or they can be referred through their GP, local hospital, workplace and local community groups.

“You don’t need a mental health plan from your GP and there is no limit to how many sessions you can access rather it’s about what’s right for the patient to get them well.”

Longreach GP and Central West Hospital and Health Service Executive Director of Medical Services, Dr David Walker said White Cloud Foundation’s Tele-Mental Health service will be an important boost for rural, remote and regional Queenslanders.

“Rural communities have endured years of drought, bushfires and floods. This is on top of being geographically isolated and working on the land. Any mental health service that supports someone at those really important early stages is a positive and welcomed enhancement in our community,” Dr Walker said.

“We now have a dedicated program providing tailored care that is easily accessible in someone’s time of need, no matter where they live. This allows for more patients to be cared for at home.

“I have been incredibly impressed by Prof. Scott’s dedication to bridging the wide divide that exists in rural and regional Queensland through his work in cardiac services, it’s been a huge deal for us doctors and our patients.

“This program will further bolster support for people living on the land and in our towns. As doctors, we know preventive mental healthcare saves lives and now it’s available to everyone.”

North Queensland Grazier Col Archer also welcomed the launch of White Cloud Tele-Mental Health.

“Too often I hear of family and friends who have suffered from depression in rural areas due to many variables the bush can throw at you,” Mr Archer said.

“To be able to reach out and seek assistance and direction from the porch or shed when you need help can only be a good thing.”

The Tele-Mental Health service works by connecting Queenslanders with White Cloud Foundation’s Brisbane-based Integrated Practice Unit, who provide assessment and advice about the best form of support, including individualised plans by the use of video and telecommunications.

The enhanced and multi-disciplinary approach has been designed in partnership with consumers, clinicians, universities, mental health services and clinicians.

To access the program today, please call 07 3155 3456 and for crisis support in Queensland, please call 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255).

White Cloud Foundation would like to thank the following supporters for making the launch of its Tele-Mental Health Service possible: