FAQs

Clients may find it helpful to read through these Frequently Asked Questions about Inpatient Admissions and Day Programs before commencing treatment.

Why would I choose iMH?

With people at the heart of everything we do, iMH provides an innovative model of mental health care that provides clients and their doctors with a range of options to meet personalised treatment needs. We pride ourselves on providing high quality treatment experiences that are tailored to the individual. iMH is supported by Aurora Healthcare as the hospital operator, with 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 assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. They can provide a wide range of treatments, including prescribing medication, delivering psychological treatments, and offering brain stimulation therapies.

Psychologists are health professionals with specialist training in providing a range of psychological treatments, delivered in both individual and group 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 clients 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. To begin that first conversation about how we can support you, please:

Contact Us

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. More information can be found here:

Arrange an Admission

How do I arrange an admission?

Information about arranging a hospital admission can be found here:

Arrange an Admission

Are there private rooms?

Yes, however the type of accommodation you receive depends on the availability of rooms and your presenting concerns. Please note, clients who share a room will be paired with a person of the same gender.

Can I drive myself to hospital?

No, clients must not drive themselves while undergoing treatment. Please arrange for a family member or friend to bring you to your admission. For more information, please speak to your treating psychiatrist.

Please note, we have limited on-site parking for visitors and carers. Parking in the hospital car park or designated areas is at the driver's own risk, and 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 on-site.

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

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

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

Yes, you are welcome to bring personal items, especially if they will help you feel more comfortable. Please note that photos and pictures cannot be hung or displayed on the walls, but you are welcome to carry them with you or place them on furniture in your room.

Will my private health insurance cover me?

Coverage depends on your level of private health insurance. Our Admissions and Assessment Team can check your policy and advise you of any potential out-of-pocket costs.

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

Yes. You have a few options for admission:

  • Self-funded admission: You can pay for treatment out-of-pocket. Our Admissions and Assessment Team can provide an estimate of costs.
  • Private health insurance: You can join a health fund and, after an initial two-month waiting period, may be eligible to claim. Our Admissions and Assessment Team can check your policy and coverage once the waiting period has been served.
  • Accessing superannuation: In certain circumstances, you may be able to use superannuation to fund your care. For more information, please visit:

My Super Care 

Once I am admitted as an inpatient client, can I leave at my own will?

For your safety, and in accordance with our hospital leave policy, no leave is permitted during the first 72 hours of admission. This allows your treating psychiatrist to complete an initial assessment.

After this period, leave may be granted at the discretion of your treating psychiatrist and nursing staff.

What can I expect as a client?

Our programs provide active treatment through both individual and group sessions. You will be encouraged to participate in group therapy and one-on-one appointments with your psychiatrist. Together, these sessions form an important part of your treatment, helping you to explore emotional and behavioural patterns and gain a better understanding of your presenting concerns.

Can I have visitors?

Yes. More information can be found here:

Visiting hours

Are pets allowed in the hospital?

Unfortunately, we do not allow general pets on-site that are not accredited service dogs. Only assistance dogs with full certified public access may accompany clients, and appropriate supporting documentation must be provided 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 clients, staff and visitors are available in our lounge facilities.

What is a day program?

Our Day Programs provide structured group therapy for a range of mental health conditions. They are based on evidence-based approaches and are tailored to meet individual needs. Delivered by our experienced mental health clinicians, Day Programs equip you with practical skills and strategies to better manage your mental health concerns. They are particularly beneficial if you do not require an inpatient admission but would still benefit from ongoing support and treatment.

Can I participate in a day program if I haven’t had an inpatient admission?

Yes, you can. An inpatient admission is not necessary to access our day programs.

Escalation of care

It is important to us that you receive high-quality care, and we encourage clients to raise any concerns they may have. Please feel free to discuss any issues with your nurse or doctor, or ask to speak with the nurse in charge. Our staff are here to support you, and we endeavour to address all concerns promptly.

Voluntary Assisted Dying Services

iMH hospitals do not provide Voluntary Assisted Dying services as part of our hospital and health services.

iMH is committed to a compassionate approach for clients who express a desire for information or access to Voluntary Assisted Dying services. We can provide information and support to access the NSW Voluntary Assisted Dying Care Coordination Service.

To discuss voluntary assisted dying or be connected with a doctor who can support you through the process, please contact the free NSW Voluntary Assisted Dying Care Navigator Service: