Initial Assessment and Referral - Decision Support Tool (IAR-DST)

Posted Wednesday 30 October 2024 | Northern Queensland PHN

When it comes to making well-informed decisions about mental health referrals, the IAR-DST provides an easy to use, evidence-based tool. The tool has a six-year planning history and has been refined by the collective input of clinicians, academics and an expert advisory group, including representatives from peak bodies, general practitioners, specialists and the Department of Health and Aged Care.

Its integration with Mental Health Treatment Plans (MHTPs) has been recommended in the recent review of ‘Better Access’ emphasizing the necessity of a consistent, standardised and evidence-based approach for mental health referrals nationwide.

NQPHN offers continuous training and support to assist clinicians in using the IAR-DST, enabling you to complement your clinical judgment and assessment with this valuable support tool. We extend an invitation to primary care health providers in the mental health sector to participate in the IAR-DST training sessions to understand how this tool can elevate your practice and enhance patient outcomes.