COVID-19 Information for Clients

---

Heightened levels of stress and anxiety are to be expected at this time as we all try to manage the multiple and rapidly changing repercussions that COVID-19 has brought. It’s important those in need continue to access mental health support in these challenging times. The Federal Government has confirmed that psychologists are considered an essential service.

Currently, Canberra Psychology Clinic remains open for in-person consultations.

We have put in place strategies to mitigate the risk to both our clients and staff and will review and change our operation in line with Department of Health advice as the situation evolves. For all clients:

If you have a cough, cold, sore throat and/or fever then PLEASE DO NOT ATTEND YOUR APPOINTMENT IN PERSON.

Given Government-ordered restrictions in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we understand some clients may not be able to or may wish not to attend an in-person consultation. Please telephone our reception (6247-5710) to discuss the alternative options available. Most clinicians will be able to offer clients a telehealth (video call) or phone consultation if you are unable to attend our practice in person.

The Government announced that from Monday 6 April 2020, all clients with a current Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) are eligible for Medicare-funded telehealth or telephone psychological services, where appropriate. From Monday 20 April, all of the previously mandated bulk billing restrictions on the Medicare items for COVID-19 telehealth services were removed for all psychologists. This means that it is no longer a requirement that psychologists bulk bill for services provided to clients aged under 16 years of age, concession cardholders, clients vulnerable to COVID-19, or any other group.

Canberra Psychology Clinic is not a bulk-billing practice. In line with our usual policy, bulk-billing will be offered at the discretion of the individual psychologist. Please let us know if you are experiencing financial hardship.

This means most clients with a current MHCP are able to have a telehealth or phone consultation, pay the usual fee, and claim the Medicare rebate (as such, these sessions will count towards your MHCP entitlement for the year). Clients with a MHCP who attend an in-person consultation can claim their Medicare rebate as usual. Private health insurers are now offering rebates for telehealth or telephone psychological services – please check with your fund for your eligibility.

These are difficult and uncertain times. The health and well-being of our clients and team are our priority.

Stay safe, stay connected and take care of each other.

Please refer to the Department of Health website Novel Coronavirus 2019 Health Alert and the ACT Government COVID-19 website ACT Government COVID-19 to stay up-to-date with Government advice.

For information on the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), you can also call the Australian Government's National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080.

Useful tips for coping with self isolation APS Tip Sheet

24 Hour Crisis Services

Lifeline 13 11 14

Kids Helpline 1800 551 800