Developing Occupational Therapy Services within an Integrated Mental Health Service

Abstract

Health care reform has been taking place in a number of countries around the world. Changes have been occurring in Australian government mental health policies regarding service delivery for people with a mental illness. The National Mental Health Policy and Plan 1992 and the Queensland Mental Health Plan 1994 have set the directions for the reform of mental health services. As a result, occupational therapists have been required to examine and develop their role in service delivery within integrated mental health services. Occupational therapists within one integrated mental health service have responded by developing their practice across service components with a focus on the consumer and with service development links.