Question:

My friend is diagnosed with ADHD and bipolar. He has been seeing a private psychiatrist for months, but now he can't afford to go and he is also going to be struggling to pay for his medication. He is a single dad with three kids and works full-time. He had some savings, which was of some help, but now that has pretty much gone due to him being made redundant.

I'm worried he may stop his medication due to not being able to afford it. Where can he seek assistance?

Answer:

We all know how health costs can mount up, especially with an ongoing condition. For this reason, it's good to know how to keep costs to a minimum, therefore, and to get as much information as we can.

With regard to treatment for ADHD and bipolar disorder, for example — as experienced by your friend — the most economical way to receive specialist help is to initially see a GP for an assessment. If appropriate, the GP can them prepare a mental health plan.

This plan may include not only any medications required, but also referral for specialist psychological treatment from a psychiatrist, psychologist, or similarly qualified health professional. It is important to note that, with this referral from a GP, the sessions with the specialist are largely claimable under Medicare.

With regard to medication, if this is prescribed by a doctor under the Australian Government's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), then the most anyone has to pay is currently $33.30 per script. It may be less than this, and will only be $5.40 if you have a concession card. Families should also register for the PBS Safety Net, so the amount payable for scripts drops after a certain amount is spent in a year.

If your friend is concerned about being unable to pay for medical treatment and medications because of low income, then the two places to enquire are Medicare (1800 020 613) and Centrelink (136 150). You can also call the SANE helpline (1800 18 SANE) or visit www.sane.org if you have any general concerns about mental illness.