Patients – Link me plus

Q: Do I have to pay for the service?

No. The questionnaire, personalised results, and recommendations are all free for patients seeing a participating GP. Using Link-me+ does not affect any fees normally associated with seeing your GP. Care Navigation is also free for all eligible patients. If you’re not sure whether your GP offers Link-me+, ask your clinic reception to find out.

Link-me+ for Patients

What is Link-me+?

Link-me+ is a new mental health service designed with you in mind. Link-me+ supports people living with common mental health issues like low mood, worry and stress. Link-me+ is a personalised approach to mental health care tailored to your specific needs and the areas you want to improve.

If you are 18 years old and over, and your GP is participating in Link-me+, you can try Link-me+.

This service is funded by Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (EMPHN) and the University of Melbourne (UoM).

How does it work?

If you’re 18 years old and over, you’ll receive a text message when you book your GP appointment with a link to the Link-me+ questionnaire.

After you complete the questionnaire, you’ll get a summary of your results including some resources you might find helpful.

Your results will be shared with your GP to help them to find the right support for you. You may wish to book a longer appointment with your GP to give you more time to discuss your options.

What happens next?

Based on your Link-me+ questionnaire results, you will receive recommendations:

If your results show...

You’ll get...

You're feeling generally well

Tips and resources to maintain your wellbeing

You may benefit from taking some steps to boost your wellbeing

Information about helpful online tools and resources based on your chosen focus areas

You may benefit from a plan to improve how you are feeling

Helpful online programs and resources plus options for mental health treatment from your GP

You would benefit from some extra individual support

Your GP will talk to you about working with a Care Navigator to improve your mental health and wellbeing

How can I access my results?

Once you’ve submitted the questionnaire, you will immediately see your results. Your GP will also be sent your results, though your GP may not access them until immediately prior to your appointment.

Who are Care Navigators?

Our Care Navigators are additional support staff who work alongside your GP to assist you in improving your mental health and wellbeing. Care Navigators work with you to create a plan that is right for you and connect you with services and resources that suit your needs. Care Navigation is a free support service, when offered by your GP.

What are the benefits?

Taking care of your mental health is important, and being proactive can make a big difference. During your GP appointment, you can discuss your situation and talk about any extra help you might need. Link-me+ is here to help you to get the support you need for your mental health and wellbeing.

Early mental health support

Personalised Care

FAQs

Who can help me complete the Link-me+ questionnaire?

If you need help to complete the Link-me+ questionnaire, you can seek support from a family member, friend or support person.

The GPs and reception staff at this clinic can help you access the link to the questionnaire. The questionnaire is for you to answer, but your GP and clinic staff are here to help you with any difficulties you have accessing the questionnaire or understanding what to do.

Can I see a Care Navigator?

If your Link-me+ questionnaire results indicate you are experiencing significant mental health symptoms, you will be eligible to receive additional support from a Care Navigator. Your GP will discuss your results with you at your next appointment and offer you the support of a Care Navigator. If you agree, the Care Navigator will contact you to book an initial 60-minute appointment.

Attending your first care navigation session in-person is recommended, however, an online appointment can be made if this works best for you. You are eligible for up to 8 sessions. You and your Care Navigator will work out a care plan that’s right for you and your needs.

Do I have to pay for the service?

No. The questionnaire, personalised results, and recommendations are all free for patients seeing a participating GP. Using Link-me+ does not affect any fees normally associated with seeing your GP. Care Navigation is also free for all eligible patients.

If you’re not sure whether your GP offers Link-me+, ask your clinic reception to find out.