Mental health quality and outcome measurement and improvement in Australia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This study outlines the broad approach taken in Australia to improve the quality of mental health services, including the use of performance and outcome measures along with a range of other linked quality initiatives. RECENT FINDINGS: The investment of Australia in a strategic national approach to mental health reform with a range of nationally coordinated quality initiatives has provided a firm foundation for continuing to engage governments, healthcare organizations and clinicians in the ongoing quest for quality and outcome measurement and improvement. SUMMARY: Australia has adopted a strategic national approach to quality and outcome measurement and improvement of mental health services despite having a federated health system involving nine governments and tiered care across public and private sectors. A range of interconnected initiatives including national plans, standards and guidelines, performance indicators and outcomes measures and benchmarking and reporting processes are the key components of this nationally coordinated system.