Study's full title: Exploring General Practitioners' Perspectives on Occupational Therapy in Mental Health Care

University Affiliation: University of Canberra

Ethics Approval/Reference Number: HREC - 13377

Principal Researcher: Arabella Hely

Supervisor(s): Dr Claire Pearce

Purpose of study: The aim of this research is to investigate general practitioners' perspectives on occupational therapy's role in mental health care, and the perspectives of occupational therapists providing services under the Better Access Mental Health Scheme (BAMHS). It seeks to identify barriers to referral and opportunities to enhance mental health care pathways. Participation Details: Those who agree to contribute to the research will be asked to participate in an interview:

A one-on-one interview will take approximately 30 minutes. Interviews will be audio recorded and can be completed either in person at a location convenient to the participant or online via Microsoft Teams or other suitable video conferencing platform. Participation in the research is completely voluntary and participants may, without any penalty, decline to take part or withdraw at any time without providing an explanation or refuse to answer a question. If a participant withdraws after an interview, that data will be excluded from the analysis.

Benefits of Participation:

As a general practitioner, participating in this research may provide you with the opportunity to reflect on your referral practices and experiences and provide an opportunity to learn more about occupational therapy in primary mental health.

As an occupational therapist, participating in this research may provide you with the opportunity to express and reflect on your role in primary mental health care and your experiences within the Better Access Mental Health Scheme.

It is also hoped this knowledge will help us to gain a greater understanding of barriers individuals face in accessing occupational therapy for mental health concerns.

How to participate:

• A 30-minute semi-structured interview via Microsoft Teams.

• Confidentiality and anonymity will be strictly maintained.

• Participation is entirely voluntary.

Contact Details: Arabella Hely u3223925@uni.canberra.edu.au and Dr Claire Pearce claire.pearce@canberra.edu.au

Participation End date: 31st of July 2025