Creating a care system that works for local young people

Boy with skateboard
  23 April 2018  NWMPHN   

Young people with complex health needs in Gisborne, Sunbury, Bacchus Marsh and Melton will soon have better access to care thanks to a $1.78m funding commitment from North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN).

Incorporating the $1m in new mental health funding recently announced for the region, the total package will also boost alcohol and other drug (AOD) and after hours health services.

NWMPHN CEO Adjunct Associate Professor Christopher Carter said the new funding could play a key role in building and supporting an integrated health service response for young people.

“Young people in crisis often don’t need just one type of health service – they need a coordinated and individualised approach that takes a holistic view of their health needs and concerns,” A/Prof Carter said.

“By providing a flexible response that includes mental health, AOD and after hours services, we aim to reduce the gaps in the existing system and ensure young people with complex needs get the care they need.”

A request for tender (RFT) process opens tomorrow calling for proposals by local health organisations, ideally in partnership with other service providers, to deliver this coordinated, flexible service.

The RFT will be open from 24 April until 18 May 2018, with services proposed to commence by mid-year. For further information on the RFT process and to apply, please visit the NWMPHN Tenderlink page at https://www.tenderlink.com/mpcn/

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