The Australian Private Hospitals Association (APHA) is calling for a small change which could make a big difference in the lives of people dealing with mental health issues. Making private hospital mental health care available to all could address a key reform suggested by the Productivity Commission’s draft report on mental health care in Australia. The draft report makes 25 recommendations, including greater early intervention for children and young people, and for all levels of government to work together to close the gap. APHA acting CEO, Lucy Cheetham, said the Commission had identified a key issue for accessing private hospital mental health care. “The Commission is exactly right to point to the ‘missing middle’ in mental health services,” she said. “People with severe mental health conditions need a range of well-coordinated supports and help prevent them from deteriorating to the point where they need acute hospital care. “They also […]