FAQs

Patient FAQs

Here are the answers to our frequently asked questions.

Why would I choose iMH?

With people at the heart of everything we do iMH provides an innovative model of mental health care providing patients and their doctors with a range of options to best meet your treatment needs.  We pride ourselves on providing high quality treatment experiences that are tailored to your individual requirements. iMH is supported by Aurora Healthcare as the hospital operator.  Aurora has over 50 years’ experience in providing mental health treatment across Australia.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have undertaken additional specialist training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions.  Psychiatrists can provide a wide range of treatments these include the prescribing of medication, psychological treatments, and brain stimulation therapies.

Psychologists are health professionals who have specialist training and focus on providing psychological treatments in both group and individual settings.

How do I know if I need specialist mental health treatment?

Everyone experiences mental health challenges differently.  However, you may need professional treatment if:

You are struggling to cope with the way that you are feeling.

Your negative feelings are excessive and seem out of control.

Your mental health is having a negative impact on your ability to function and your quality of life.

How do I know what type of treatment I require?

We understand that seeking mental health treatment is a big step in your recovery journey and we are here to offer you support and guidance.  At iMH, we are able to offer a range of treatment programs to our patients which can either be scaled up or scaled down depending upon the type of support and treatment which is required.  

Our team of dedicated clinicians are available to speak with you in confidence and provide you with guidance on your concerns and options for treatment.  

Contact our hospital for more details on how we can help on 1800 961 391 or go to contact us to find out ways to get in touch with our team.

Do I need a letter of referral from my doctor to access hospital services?

Yes, you will need a referral from your treating doctor or specialist. For more information, please visit 

Getting admitted to our hospital 

How do I arrange an admission?

Information about arranging a hospital admission can be found by selecting this link. 

Getting admitted to our hospital 

What is a day program?

A day program provides group therapy for a mental health condition.  These programs use evidence based theories which are tailored to a range of conditions. The programs are delivered by our experience mental health clinicians and provide you with skills and strategies to better manage your mental health.  Day programs are particularly useful if you don’t require an overnight admission, but still require ongoing support and treatment.

Can I participate in a day program if I haven’t been admitted to hospital?

Yes, you can. A hospital admission is not necessary to access our day programs.  

Can I have a private room?

The type of accommodation you receive depends on the availability of rooms and your clinical presentation. Our patients who share a room will be paired with a person of the same gender.

Can I drive myself to hospital?

No, patients must not drive themselves while undergoing treatment. For more information, speak to your treating psychiatrist.

Please arrange for a family member or friend to take you to hospital. We have limited, onsite parking for visitors and carers. Parking in the hospital car park or designated areas is at the driver's own risk. It is the driver/rider's responsibility to ensure that the vehicle is safe and secure. We are not liable for any damage caused to vehicles whilst parked onsite.

Can I bring other electrical appliances such as my laptop or hairdryer?

Yes, however, we accept no responsibility for the security of patient possessions.

Can I bring my pillow and photos of family and friends?

Yes, you can bring personal items, particularly if they will help you feel more comfortable. Photos and pictures are not able to be hung or displayed on the wall.

Will my private health insurance cover me?

This depends on the individual private health insurance cover you have with your insurance provider. Our Admissions and Assessment Coordinator will check your level of cover with your insurance provider. We will advise you of any potential out-of-pocket expenses you will need to pay.

If I don’t have private health insurance, can I still be admitted?

Our hospital accepts patients who can self-fund their admission. The Admissions and Assessment Coordinator will be able to arrange an estimate of expenses for you. There are also options to access your superannuation under certain conditions to fund health care. Please visit 

My Super Care 

Once I am admitted as an overnight patient, can I leave at my own will?

In the interest of your safety and in accordance with our hospital leave policy, no leave is permitted for the first 72 hours of your hospital admission, to allow for assessment by your treating psychiatrist. 

Leave following this time is at the approval of the treating Psychiatrist and discretion of the Nursing staff.

What happens while I am a patient?

We provide active treatment with individual and group programs. You will be encouraged to participate in group therapy sessions and one-on-one appointments with your psychiatrist. Together this forms an important part of treatment, for you to explore emotional and behavioural patterns, and learn more about your disorder.

Can I have visitors?

Yes, click  to view current hours for hospital visitors.

Visiting hours

Are pets allowed in the hospital?

We do not permit general pets onsite that are not accredited service dogs. Only assistance dogs with full certified public access will be able to accompany patients and documentation must be presented prior to admission.

Are snacks and refreshments available?

Yes, you can purchase snacks and refreshments in the common areas from dispensing machines.

Coffee, tea and biscuits for patients, staff and visitors are available in our lounge facilities.