Australia's peak body for psychologists has welcomed the Federal Government's extension of telehealth psychology sessions under Medicare, until 30 June 2021.
Throughout the pandemic, telehealth psychology has been a lifeline for Australians to access vital mental health support, particularly when face-to-face sessions aren't possible or there is a barrier to care.
President of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), Tamara Cavenett said the APS applauds the Federal Government's commitment to mental health throughout the pandemic.
"Disrupted treatment plans can mean two steps forward and one step back. Today's announcement will provide much needed certainty for psychologists and their clients," said Ms Cavenett.
"As we have reiterated many times in recent weeks, psychologists have been on the front-line of a mental health crisis in Australia, and now is the time to support access and equity in mental health support."
Over the course of the pandemic, 94 percent of psychologists have adopted telehealth, and the accessibility and flexibility it offers Australians has been invaluable.
The APS will continue to advocate to Government about the importance of making telehealth for psychology sessions a permanent part of the Medicare system.
