Abstract

Brisbane North PHN is one of 31 Primary Health Networks across Australia. We work with local communities, consumers, carers, health professionals, hospitals and community providers to understand our community and their needs. We then engage with stakeholders to design and commission programs and services to meet those needs. One of the Brisbane North PHN’s priorities is improving the quality, coordination and integration of mental health, suicide prevention and alcohol and other drug services.

A key area of focus has been the development of a Regional Plan for North Brisbane and Moreton Bay focusing on mental health, suicide prevention and alcohol and other drug services 2018-2023. The regional plan sets out the challenges facing us and what we can all do over the next few years to improve the quality, coordination and integration of services. This presentation will cover some of the experiences of the Brisbane North PHN, the opportunities and challenges as a PHN in addressing the physical health needs of those living with mental illness, delivering on the intent of the Equally Well Consensus Statement.