The first person someone with a mental health problem is likely to turn to for professional help is their GP, who is expected to deal with them in an appropriate manner and within the 10-minute consultation window.
‘Mental health problems are a major part of our GPs’ workload and we are keen to provide them with as much support as possible.’ Michael Ramsden, Project Lead – Head of Programme Delivery: Planned Care & Long-Term Conditions, NHS Milton Keynes.
NHS Milton Keynes decided that adding mental health options for general referral and medication advice to their existing rapid Telephone Advice & Guidance service would be a very simple and effective step forward in supporting their GPs.
GPs in and around Milton Keynes have been using rapid Telephone Advice & Guidance via Consultant Connect for acute and elective care since October 2017, so are very familiar with how easy it is. On average*, 78% of calls are answered the first time by a specialist within 48 seconds and last less than four minutes.
To set up the mental health options, the Consultant Connect team worked closely with the ICB and their local mental health trust, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) to establish a pre-defined rota of specialists for the service before launching it to all local GP practices in October 2018.
‘Using the activity data reports Consultant Connect sends us we are able to; identify specific training needs, monitor outcomes and commission improved services to the local population.’ Michael Ramsden.
In total, 27 GP practices covering a patient population of 252,400 now have access to the service. Local GPs we spoke to are enthusiastic:
‘We are now able to fit in a quick call to a mental health specialist within our normal consultation time, which is a great help. With this service, patients should get a far greater experience and avoid unnecessary appointments. This should mean the outcomes for the patients will be better.’
* Data correct as of January 2025.
If you are interested in finding out how our service can improve mental healthcare provision in your area, please contact us on 01865 261 467, or email hello@consultantconnect.org.uk.
