How to Tackle a Giant: Creating a Genuine Evaluation of the Better Access Program

Abstract

Objective: This paper proposes a framework for a systematic evaluation of the Better Access Program, the largest single component of mental health reform announced under the Council of Australian Governments National Action Plan on Mental Health 2006–11. Method: The article explores the genesis of the Program and considers extant data sets and information available with which to establish the impact of the Program on consumers and service providers. Results: There are useful data available in Australia from which to derive pre- and post-implementation analysis about the impact of the Better Access Program. There is doubt as to whether these data form part of the Federal Government's current approach to evaluation of the Program. Conclusions: Anything less than a genuine and comprehensive evaluation will leave Australia unable to assess the real impact of the Better Access Program. The merit of further expenditure in the vital area of primary mental health care will be in doubt as a consequence.