A comprehensive review of the federal government's Better Access mental health scheme, which provides Medicare rebates for Australians consulting psychologists, psychiatrists and GPs is delivering value to participants ... and the government.

Researchers found "Participating consumers who received care from clinical psychologists, registered psychologists and GPs under Better Access shifted from having high or very high levels of psychological distress to having much more moderate levels of psychological distress. Consumers who received care from clinical psychologists and registered psychologists also showed shifts from moderate or severe levels of depression, anxiety and stress to having normal or mild levels of these conditions. These consumers clearly achieved positive outcomes, as assessed by standardised measures."

Significantly, the study found clients treated by generalist psychologists achieved the same outcomes as those who consulted clinical psychologists, and those who took advantage of rebates for six sessions achieved better outcomes than those who had fewer sessions.