People in the Moreton Bay region now have better access to mental health services closer to home thanks to the Palaszczuk Government.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said the first phase of an innovative new $5.4 million Mental Health Short Stay Unit is now open at Caboolture Hospital to provide care for people requiring urgent mental health treatment.

“Demand for specialist mental health services continues to grow in the Caboolture and Redcliffe areas,” Minister Miles said.

“We know the ED isn’t always the best place for people experiencing mental health concerns which is why this service is a welcome addition here at Caboolture Hospital.

“Patients presenting to emergency departments with mental illness often require short-term mental health care, including stabilisation and treatment.

Local State Member for Morayfield Mark Ryan said the short stay unit provides a safe, secure and therapeutic environment for people experiencing an acute episode of mental illness.

“The unit is specifically designed to provide faster access to an inpatient service and reduce the amount of time people spend in the ED.

“This approach will not only improve the lives of people with acute mental illness but will also relieve pressure on our hospitals as it reduces waiting times and the need for an extended inpatient stay.”

Metro North Mental Health Executive Director Professor Brett Emmerson AM said the Mental Health Short Stay Unit has been designed to deliver brief interventions for people presenting with acute mental health concerns 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

It provides a safe environment for observation and treatment of people over 16 years of age and focusses on delivering short-term inpatient care.

“It allows more time for assessment and provides short-term treatment and care for people affected by acute mental illness in a safe, low stimulus environment,” Professor Emmerson said.

The unit is staffed by a multi-disciplinary team, including medical, nursing, allied health professionals and peer support workers, designing interventions and treatment plans to support people’s recovery efforts.

With a focus on ensuring that people can be supported to remain living in their community, the Mental Health Short Stay Unit takes a recovery-oriented approach that involves the patient, their family and carers in the care planning process.

It comprises eight bed areas, interview rooms and a range of common areas, including a lounge and dining area and a back patio, giving patients an outdoor space. Social distancing and hygiene measures are in place considering COVID-19.