FNQ suicide rates remain 50 per cent above the national average, as professionals underscore challenges in mental health sector

Psychologists in Cairns are calling for the federal government to reinstate medicare’s 20-session subsidised therapy cap, as Far North Queensland suicide rates remain 50 per cent above the national average. Find out more here.

In Far North Queensland, suicide rates are 50 per cent higher than the national average, with one person taking their life every six day.

Cairns psychologists are calling on the federal government to double the number of counselling sessions it offers through Medicare at a subsidised rate.

It follows data from the Australian Institute Health and Welfare revealing one person takes their life every six days in Far North Queensland — 50 per cent higher than the national average.

Psychologist Jayney Sutcliffe has 20 years of experience with mental health and said the cost to access support can stop people from reaching out.

“If the costs become something people can’t afford, then it prevents them from being able to access services,” she said.

“What would help is if the government could bring back having 20 consults a year, like we did through Covid-19.

“Yes this service is my bread and butter, but I’m also providing a service I want people to be able to access.”

Ms Sutcliffe said patients in Cairns can expect to pay between $150 to $300, with the cost per visit varying based on the clinician’s fee structure.

Cairns Doctors on Barr St has expanded its general practice with the launch of a new branch to the business – Cairns Specialists on Barr St.

Currently the federal government offers six sessions at a time, with a portion of those those costs covered through the scheme.

If a patient needs more they can request an additional four sessions from their doctor, for a total of 10 sessions through Medicare.

Clinicians at Ramsay Psychology in Cairns, agreed a major barrier for patients had been the removal of the 20 Medicare subsidised sessions, which were offered during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Last year Labor invested $400,000 for the Queensland Mental Health Commission to operate the Queensland Suicide Register. Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Ambulance Services, Shannon Fentiman. Picture: NewsWire - Glenn Campbell.

 

“The effects of Covid-19 are still present and this has left people unable to access Medicare rebates,” a Ramsay Psychology spokeswoman said.

The private clinic also said the current Medicare rebate for psychology services was “outdated and insufficient”.

“Instead of continuing debates, a more effective solution could be introducing a $50 bulk billing bonus for psychologists,” the spokeswoman said.

“This would make services free for clients and improve accessibility for everyone.”

Ms Sutcliffe, originally from Victoria, has lived in Cairns for more than two decades. She has previously developed and delivered programs on mental health at high school-based psychoeducation programs. Picture: Supplied.

The calls come as the nation marks Suicide Prevention Week, from September 6 to 13, and following RUOK Day on Thursday.

The events hope to raise awareness and promote strategies to prevent suicide.

Queensland’s Health Minister Shannon Fentiman said her government was committed to helping people lead safe and healthy lives, but admitted there was “still work to be done”.

Psychologists in Cairns are calling for the Australian Government to considering bringing back the 20 Medicare-subsidised session appointments for therapy. Picture: Supplied.

“Every suicide has a tragic and life altering impact on families and communities, and I send my deepest condolences to those affected,” Ms Fentiman said.

“We know that mental health challenges are affecting young Queenslanders in particular, which is why we’re investing $330m to improve mental health services tailored to their needs.”

Ms Fentiman also said while this was the “largest investment” in Queensland’s history, the Child and Youth Acute Response Teams in Cairns had employed additional staff to ensure young people experiencing mental health crisis could access the support services and care they need.

“I know the health service has recently completed a round of advertising and expects to welcome 10 registered mental health nurses from the end of July 2024. That will further boost mental health support across the region,” she said.

The Miles Government said they are dedicated to enhancing mental health for Queenslanders through the $1.9bn Better Care Together Plan, supported through the nations Mental Health Levy. Picture: Supplied.

Cairns psychologist Ms Sutcliffe said if someone was in crisis or struggling, it was important to establish a regular treatment plan.

Those seeking treatment in the region can expect about a two-week wait for an appointment at her office on Barr St, while other clinics in the region have reported wait times of up to six to eight weeks.

Ramsay Psychology in Cairns North said it had immediate appointments available with their psychologists.

The private clinic revealed it is adding two new psychologists by the end of the year, as well as a psychiatrist, bringing the total number of staff to 10.

If you wish to connect with the either services mentioned in this article, you can contact them at Cairns Doctors on Barr St [phone] or Ramsay Psychology Cairns 1300 171 715.

The Federal Government were approached for comment but did not respond before deadline.

Originally published as FNQ suicide rates remain 50 per cent above the national average, as professionals underscore challenges in mental health sector