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“We’re pleased to collaborate with Medibank on innovative treatments that improve access and affordability while keeping clinical quality at the centre,” Avive Health co-chief executive and co-founder Mark Sweeney said.
“Bringing this program to Brisbane means more people can access evidence-based care within a consistent, team-based setting.”
Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows 11 per cent, or one in nine, Australians will experience PTSD, a mental health condition caused by extremely stressful or traumatic events, in their life.
TRD is a subset of a major depressive disorder that does not respond to traditional therapeutic options such as antidepressant medications, and can often lead to prolonged periods of inpatient treatments.
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Psychedelics, a subclass of hallucinogenic drugs that trigger non-ordinary states of consciousness, have increasingly emerged as an effective treatment for PTSD and TRD, in controlled environments, in conjunction with therapy.
Perth biotechnology company Emyria, backed by Andrew Forrest’s private investment group Tattarang, introduced psychotherapy treatment at Empax clinic in June.
Emyria managing director and chief executive Dr Michael Winlo told the Australian Financial Review the success rate of the company’s MDMA treatment was “staggering”, with nearly 60 per cent of patients losing their PTSD diagnosis altogether.
“It’s a much more durable psychological insight that takes place facilitated by the medicine,” Winlo said.
“It really just allows people to discuss difficult content without being overwhelmed, and therefore allows the therapy to become more effective.”
Medibank committed $50 million to improve mental health access of its customers earlier this year and said it would continue exploring opportunities to expand treatments to other states.
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