What is an Independent Patient Rights Adviser (IPRA)?

As an authorised mental health service, Metro South Addiction and Mental Health Services has systems in place to ensure that patients, the patient’s nominated support persons, family, carers and other support persons are advised of their rights and responsibilities under the Mental Health Act 2016. 

You can expect that your treating team and people involved in your care keep will you informed of your rights and responsibilities. 

In addition to information and advice that you receive from the treating team, you will have access to Independent Patient Rights Advisers (IPRAs).

IPRAs are available to provide advice to people who have been diagnosed with a mental illness and are currently receiving treatment through Metro South Addiction and Mental Health Services (MSAMHS).

To maintain independence, Independent Patient Rights Advisers (IPRAs) have been employed separately to the MSAMHS through Aftercare.

Aftercare supports thousands of people with a lived experience of mental illness across Australia to lead fulfilling, independent lives.

Who can contact the Independent Patient Rights Adviser Service for advice?

IPRAs are available to provide advice to people who have been diagnosed with a mental illness and are currently receiving treatment through MSAMHS.  IPRAs may also provide advice to nominated support persons, family members, carers and other support people.

What advice is available from the Independent Patient Rights Adviser Service?

IPRAs can help people to understand how to:

• know their rights under the Mental Health Act 2016 (Qld)

• express their views about treatment and care
• access legal advice and support for Mental Health Review Tribunal appearances
• express concerns and make complaints
• understand the benefits of making an Advance Health Directive and the steps involved to create one.

Contact details

A member of the treating team may arrange a referral into the Independent Patient Rights Adviser Service, or you can contact 1300 477 243 or email IPRABrisbane@aftercare.com.au

Standard operating hours are between 7:00 am and 5.30 pm