❓ Hon Adele Farina asks about growth funding for the South West Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS). Hon Helen Morton responds that funding is under negotiation, referrals are triaged, and training positions are being increased.
AnsweredQoN 714Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
SOUTH WEST CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE — GROWTH FUNDING
I refer to the South West Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. (1) What growth funding has been paid to South West CAMHS for 2011–12? (2) If growth funding is yet to be determined — (a) when will it be determined; and (b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON
I refer to the South West Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. (1) What growth funding has been paid to South West CAMHS for 2011–12? (2) If growth funding is yet to be determined — (a) when will it be determined; and (b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(1) What growth funding has been paid to South West CAMHS for 2011–12? (2) If growth funding is yet to be determined — (a) when will it be determined; and (b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(2) If growth funding is yet to be determined — (a) when will it be determined; and (b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(a) when will it be determined; and (b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(1) What growth funding has been paid to South West CAMHS for 2011–12? (2) If growth funding is yet to be determined — (a) when will it be determined; and (b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(2) If growth funding is yet to be determined — (a) when will it be determined; and (b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(a) when will it be determined; and (b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(b) what action is the minister taking to ensure that all children and adolescents unable to access South West CAMHS due to inadequate funding and resourcing are being assessed so that they are able to access appropriate treatment? Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
Hon HELEN MORTON replied: I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. (1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(1)–(2)(a) With regard to the growth funding, the Mental Health Commission’s purchasing intentions are still being considered by the Department of Health. The Mental Health Commission has put a proposal to the Department of Health. Those negotiations are taking place, but a certain amount of growth funding is in those purchasing intentions. Those negotiations around the targeted allocation relate to $6.5 million worth of growth funding. The Mental Health Commission has indicated to the Department of Health that the primary allocation of that growth funding is for child and adolescent mental health services. That has not been finalised yet, but I have a meeting this evening with the Director General of the Department of Health and the Mental Health Commissioner, and I anticipate that these negotiations will be finalised very shortly, if not tonight. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich interjected. Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
Hon HELEN MORTON : Settle down. The member has no idea what she is talking about. The answer continues — (2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
(2)(b) With regard to action to make sure that children in the South West can get access to services, all the referrals for children in the South West are triaged and assessed according to their priority. Appropriate treatment options are determined based on the assessment and treatment offered according to the level of urgency. In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
In the meantime, we are also funding a significant increase in the level of training positions throughout the state for child psychiatrists. We have every intention of increasing the level of resources available throughout the state for children who need mental health services. When I recently met with the country clinical directors and service managers, they gave two absolutely clear messages about the highest priority in country areas for mental health services. One was the recruitment and retention of staff, which continues to be difficult. The second very clear message coming from them was that whatever we do, child and adolescent services in the country are their priority. The messages are very clearly understood. I have subsequently had an invitation from the people in the South West to go to the South West and talk with them. That meeting is being progressed at this stage. I again assure the member that, although we have to triage and prioritise services, that is happening.
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