GPMHTP templates
The GP Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) templates can enhance the quality of mental health care provision and support GPs in managing common mental health illnesses under the Better Access initiative.
The GP MHTP templates are designed to provide prompts in the assessment, treatment planning and review of patients experiencing symptoms of a mental illness, and to assist in the documentation of this information.
Four templates are now available for download:
- a short-form template titled Minimal requirements
- a template for use with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population (new - 2023)
- a template for use with adult patients
- a template for use with child and adolescent patients
- a template as a Subjective Objective Assessment Plan (SOAP)
Note
It is not necessary to complete all fields when preparing the GP MHTP. GPs may choose to adapt the templates according to the needs of their practice and their patients.
It is not mandatory to use any particular form when preparing and claiming for a GP MHTP (MBS items 2700, 2701, 2715 and 2717).
Changes to the GP Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) templates
Updated May 2023
In May 2020, the GPMHSC commissioned the Southern Synergy research faculty, Monash University to conduct a review of the existing GP MHTP templates. The purpose of the review was to collate and analyse the latest available evidence on the best practice for mental health assessment and treatment planning in general practice, and to seek advice from GPs and other relevant stakeholders on the usefulness and appropriateness of the current templates.
While the study concluded the purpose and function of the GP MHTPs remains unchanged, recommendations were provided to update and improve the GP MHTPs including incorporating records of culturally relevant information. Understanding and acknowledging culture, ethnicity, wellness, resilience and recovery is essential when providing patient centred care. The GPMHSC therefore convened five working groups to develop/update MHTP templates for the following populations:
- Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD)
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Refugees
- Veterans
- LGBTQI+
Rich Text Format (RFT) Templates
Rich Text Format (RTF) versions are required for importing the GP MHTP templates into GP software systems, such as Best Practice® and MedicalDirector®If you experience technical issues importing the templates, please contact your medical software vendor.
Word document Templates
Word doc versions are made available to assist GPs adapt the templates according to the needs of their practice and their patients.