BALLARAT Community Health will aim to provide improved support services for people with mental ill-health or alcohol and other drug dependencies from this winter.<\/p>\n
BCH is partnering with Central Highlands Rural Health, and the Maryborough District Health Service from 1 July to cater to western Victorian patients as part of the new Step Thru Care program, backed by Western Victoria Primary Health Network.<\/p>\n
Having assessed the recommendations stemming from the Royal Commission into Victoria\u2019s Mental Health System, and looked at community needs, WVPHN has formed the program.<\/p>\n
BCH alcohol and other drugs services manager Suzanne Powell said Step Thru Care will be key to client recovery.<\/p>\n
Patients\u2019 support needs when they first connect with the program to determine eligibility.<\/p>\n
\u201cMental health, and alcohol and other drug challenges are impacting people right across the Ballarat Goldfields region, often simultaneously,\u201d Ms Powell said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAgencies will guide clients toward the support that is best suited to their needs no matter where they live in the Ballarat Goldfields region.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople who need both mental health and AOD services can receive these supports from the same agency, reducing the need to re-tell their stories.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere will also be proactive collaboration with external professionals such as GPs. We\u2019re providing holistic services that consider the needs of every individual.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe partner agencies are working together to bolster services and ensure the greatest possible impact on the health and wellbeing of our community members.\u201d<\/p>\n
The health services are currently recruiting clinicians to deliver the program, and Ms Powell encourages those qualified to apply to work with BCH.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re looking for special people to join our team as part of this exciting new initiative,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are aware of the demand for treatment within the Ballarat Goldfields region. We need a strong team of dedicated people to support those in need.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
BALLARAT Community Health will aim to provide improved support services for people with mental ill-health or alcohol and other drug dependencies from this winter. BCH is partnering with Central Highlands Rural Health, and the Maryborough District Health Service from 1 July to cater to western Victorian patients as part of the new Step Thru Care […]<\/p>\n