Celebrating the vital role of mental health nurses

On Mental Health Nurses Day, 20 February, we recognise and celebrate the dedication, skill and compassion of mental health nurses who support some of the most vulnerable people in our community every day.

At Medibank, we employ more than 100 mental health professionals who deliver high quality mental health services across eight different programs.

In addition to supporting Medibank customers on the 24/7 Mental Health Support line and webchat, our team also supports a range of external services such as NSW Mental Health Triage line, Medicare Mental Health line (NSW), Medicare Mental Health line (WA), Problem Gambling WA Helpline, Digital Guided Therapy, Department of Education International Students support line and the Commission for Children and Young People (wellbeing checks).

Medibank Chief Medical Officer, Dr Andrew Wilson, who is also a practicing psychiatrist, said that mental health nurses play a crucial role in supporting people when they need it most.

“Our mental health nurses do an incredible job every day by supporting people when they are struggling with their mental health. For many people, they are the first point of contact with a mental health support service.

“Many years ago, telehealth did not exist and certainly not for mental health. These days as health and technology evolves, we can provide that initial support for our customers straight away, without having to make an appointment. This is also important for our customers in regional and rural areas where health services are limited.

Medibank’s 24/7 Mental Health Support Line and Webchat see spikes in calls around the Christmas and Easter holiday periods, during school holidays and in the winter months.