Roadmap for Digital Mental Health Hub ready mid-year – Minister Doocey

NEWS - eHealthNews.nz editor Rebecca McBeth 

New Zealand’s first Minister for Mental Health, Matt Doocey, has asked the sector to develop a roadmap for a Digital Mental Health Hub, aimed at improving access to mental health services nationwide.

Doocey tells eHealthNews there is a need for a streamlined, digital-first approach to address gaps in the current mental health system.

“When I talk to people about their mental health and addiction experiences, people often say that in their time of need, their biggest challenge is finding the right support—it feels fragmented and takes too long,” he says. 

A key component of the hub will be improving digital navigation to connect people with existing mental health services. 

“Many people are unaware of the services already available to them. Navigation systems could be a game changer,” he says. 

Doocey participated in a Digital Mental Health Summit in December 2024, hosted by industry body the Digital Health Association (DHA). From this he has tasked the sector to work with the DHA on a roadmap to create a hub and hopes to have this ready by July this year. 

The proposed hub would provide a “centralised, highly accessible platform connecting digital tools, virtual care and support services to better meet the needs of all New Zealanders,” he says in a subsequent letter to attendees.

The Minister tells eHealthNews he has looked at a number of international approaches, including Australia’s plans for an all of government platform, and favours a sector-led model to develop a roadmap with timelines, milestones and implementation dates.

His vision is for a system where users can enter their information and receive instant recommendations for relevant support services, along with real-time appointment booking.

“Providers will be key in ensuring the hub seamlessly integrates with existing services. Much like the 1737 mental health helpline, the hub should be a recognisable go-to resource,” Doocey says.

Another part of the roadmap would be to digitise current programs, such as the Access and Choice initiative, which rolled out mental health and addiction support within GP practices. This would maximise reach and workforce efficiency, particularly in rural areas. 

The Minister says that the approach must be needs-driven, but funding will be made available. 

“Funding is always a factor, but it should not dictate the approach. If you start with funding, people tailor solutions to fit available budgets rather than real needs,” says Doocey.

Read more about plans for a Digital Mental Health Hub in a Q&A with Minister Doocey in Views.

If you're interested in getting involved in developing the roadmap email info@dha.org.nz

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