Abstract
The majority of psychiatrists in Australia work in private practice either partly or wholly, and it is a vital aspect of mental health care. Many of the current College and government initiatives described in the President's and CEO's reports aim to facilitate and enhance a collaborative process with other mental health professionals and GP's in the provision of health care for those who are mentally ill.
The College has had a longstanding relationship with the Private Mental Health Alliance (PMHA) which also includes representatives from the Consumer Carer Alliance, the AMA, private hospitals, health insurance funds and the Department of Health. The College, through General Council, has held the view that broadening this group to include wider professional representation is important. This perspective was discussed with the group and the outcome of this is the model of a clinical working party involving the RANZCP, the RACGP and other mental health professional representatives. The RANZCP is pleased to be involved in this way in order to continue to provide a clinical perspective. We acknowledge the vital importance of the College having a voice and influence in mental health policy.
A key priority for the RANZCP is continuing work with consumers and carers. We remain strongly connected to and supportive of the Consumer Carer Alliance. We value the contribution of consumers and carers to the College, currently in the Board of Professional and Community Relations, and continue to look at ways to increase involvement and provide greater support.
The Private Practitioners Network (PPN) was established in 2002 to represent private practice within the College, and was made up of representatives of each of the Branch committees. As well as regular meetings, the PPN has held regular seminars each Congress on issues particularly relevant to private practice. This group was also active in the discussions between the College and the Department of Health regarding the changes to Medicare including the new item number 291 and 293. Jo Lammersma, the previous Honorary Secretary, was chair of the PPN and provided a voice directly to General Council on private practice matters.
Current priorities include facilitating improved communication between private practitioners and ensuring the PPN continues to have a direct voice to General Council in order to represent private practitioners adequately. One of the more immediate aims of the College is to welcome and encourage private practitioners to be active members of this group, and for Branches and committees to have representation on behalf of their members in private practice.
