International options for improving access to psychotherapy services
| Solution | Evidence |
|---|---|
| From Australia: Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners through the MBS (Better Access) initiative (2006) | Utilization increased: Treatment rates for people with anxiety, depression and substance use disorders rose from 38% to 46% by 2009/10.13 Inequitable uptake: 68 psychologist consultations per 1000 residents were billed to the Better Access program in the most advantaged areas versus 23 per 1000 in the least advantaged areas.14 |
| From UK (England): Improving Access to Psychological Therapies program (2008) | Strong overall outcomes: 50% target for clinical recovery met by 2017.15 Inequitable outcomes: 35% recovery rate in most deprived decile versus 55% in the least deprived decile.16 |
| A cost–benefit analysis from Canada | Estimated $2 in savings to society received for every $1 invested in expanding Medicare coverage of psychological services.17 |
Note: MBS = Medicare Benefits Schedule.