Media release

From: Pasifika Medical Association Group

In 2019, the government invested NZ$455 million in an integrated primary mental health and addiction (IPMHA) service, which provides brief support and advice for those in psychological distress via primary care–based health improvement practitioners (HIP). It was hoped that providing non-specific supports in the community would reduce demand on specialist services and that longer-term funding for specialist services and specific psychiatric interventions could be reduced. However, there is little evidence to suggest introducing primary care interventions has reduced the demand for specialist mental health services. People with severe mental illnesses are still struggling to access appropriate care. The New Zealand Government’s strategic approach to mental health imposes a sacrifice on those with the most severe mental disorders, so that those with mild to moderate psychological distress can be prioritised. For someone with schizophrenia, a brief period of support from an HIP is like providing a Band-Aid for someone who has broken bones. People with severe mental illness need specific evidence-based interventions.