Lessons from the National Mental Health Integration Program

Abstract

Three projects were funded under the national Mental Health Integration Program (MHIP) in 1999, each of which employed a different model aimed at improving linkages between disparate parts of the mental health system. A national evaluation framework guided local evaluations of these projects, and this paper presents a synthesis of the findings. For providers, the projects improved working relationships, created learning opportunities and increased referral and shared care opportunities. For consumers and carers, the projects resulted in a greater range of options and increased continuity of care. For the wider system, the projects achieved significant structural and cultural change. Costwise, there were no increases in expenditure, and even some reductions. Many of the lessons from the projects (and their evaluations) may be general- ised to other mental health settings and beyond.