Abstract
Author(s)
Wilhelmina Brown¹
Affiliations
- Central and Eastern Sydney PHN
Introduction
Between 2020 and 2022, CESPHN staff noticed an increasing demand for mental health services due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sydney lockdowns, and job insecurity. In response, CESPHN developed resources and projects through the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Advisory Council and the Central and Eastern Sydney Mental Health and Regional Plan. One outcome was the creation of the “While You Wait” resource, which addresses the gap between GP referrals and specialist mental health intake.
Method
The “While You Wait” GP resource pack was developed through a co-design process led by CESPHN. Initial consultation involved interviews and the formation of an expert working group comprising PHN staff, GPs, and primary care professionals. They identified a core issue: the gap between referral and consultation with a specialist. To bridge this gap, they collaboratively designed the resource to provide GPs with screening and referral pathway information.
Two prototype testing sessions, facilitated by Kath Thorburn (PhD student at CPHCE UNSW, co-founder of inside out & associates Australia), refined the resource based on feedback from consumers and carers. Released in 2022 on the CESPHN website, the resource aimed to cater to the needs of users.
Results & Findings
In 2023, an evaluation of the resource’s engagement took place, analysing online analytics and user feedback. One improvement identified was incorporating information on the physical health of individuals with mental health conditions.
Discussion
“The success of the “While You Wait” GP Resource Pack lies in its co-design principles, emphasizing equal partnership, openness, respect, empathy, and joint design. However, it was during the 2023 evaluation that the importance of integrating physical and mental health in primary care became evident.
By incorporating these suggestions and lessons learned, CESPHN can enhance the resource’s effectiveness in supporting individuals and their care providers during the waiting period for specialist mental health services.