Mental health care overhaul shifts assessments to family doctors in 2025

Changes are coming to mental health care services next year. Patients needing psychiatric support will first be directed to their family physician. The move aims to address the ongoing shortage of psychiatrists while ensuring proper care for all. The new system will rely on family physicians to assess mental health concerns. With the help of e-consultation, they will decide if specialist treatment is necessary. If not, they will either provide guidance themselves or refer patients to other suitable services.

For cases requiring a psychiatrist, patients will still have access to specialist care. However, urgent situations like psychosis or suicidal thoughts will bypass the new process. These will continue to receive immediate psychiatric attention.

The reorganisation reflects the growing demand for mental health support. Many patients currently referred to specialists do not actually need psychiatric care. Meanwhile, the shortage of child psychiatrists remains a challenge, though more young professionals are entering the field. The changes will take effect from next year. Family physicians will play a larger role in mental health assessments, supported by trusted nurses and digital tools. The system aims to use resources more efficiently while maintaining access to specialist care when required.