State response to high rates of psychotropic medicines use

Several areas of Tasmania were among the highest users in Australia of anxiety and depression medicines in the first Atlas, and Hobart–North West had more than double the national average rate of use of anxiety medicines5. Differences in rates of anxiety and depression in the population did not account for these high rates. A lack of awareness of, and access to, non-medicine treatment for mental illnesses was thought to be a potential problem. 

Primary Health Tasmania undertook a comprehensive needs assessment to gain a deeper understanding of the Atlas findings, and to see how resources to support optimal treatment of anxiety and depression could best be used. Staff from Primary Health Tasmania collaborated with other clinicians, including the Chief Psychiatrist, and consulted with the Chief Pharmacist, to look more closely at treatment of mental illnesses in different parts of Tasmania. 

Quality improvement initiatives included: 

• Auditing practice data
• Having conversations with clinicians in target areas and providing peer support to improve practice
• Developing deprescribing resources and training clinicians in their use
• Developing and promoting Tasmanian Health Pathways for mental health. 

The team assessed the availability of mental health services in different areas of Tasmania, and increased access where gaps were found. The team increased access to face-to-face social work and psychology supports, promoted consumer self-management tools for depression and anxiety, and increased the use of GP Mental Health Treatment Plans. Primary Health Tasmania, together with the Tasmanian Health Service and the Department of Health and Human Services, took a multi-pronged approach to improving the quality of clinical care. 

Primary Health Tasmania is continuing to explore local management of other illnesses examined in the Atlas, such as diabetes.