Ramsay Health Psychology Clinics to Close 17 Branches: What Will Happen to Patients?

Ramsay Health Care is preparing to close the majority of its psychology clinics across Australia within weeks. The move leaves thousands of patients in need of mental healthcare and support uncertain about where they will turn next, amid concerns over access and continuity of care. With high-risk groups and vulnerable individuals potentially affected, the impact is expected to be significant.

Ramsay Health Care, recognised as Australia's largest private provider of psychology services, announced plans to shut 17 of its 20 clinics by the end of August 2025. The closures will affect locations in Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, and Western Australia, including South Melbourne, Box Hill, Fortitude Valley, Ipswich, Parramatta, and West Perth. Only clinics in Cairns, Charlestown, and Joondalup will remain operational.

The company states that the decision was made to create a more flexible and sustainable model for mental health services. Ramsay claims the move is driven by rising costs, uneven demand, and operational complexities. In a statement, the organisation expressed its commitment to supporting clients through expanded telehealth services and partnerships with other providers.

Impact on Patients and Care Continuity

Mental health care is critically important in Australia, given the significant prevalence of mental health issues across the population. Australians face risks such as high rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide, which are often exacerbated by factors like social isolation, rural living, and economic stress.

Psychologists working within Ramsay's network have voiced concern about the consequences for patients. Anonymously, one clinician described how patients often face long waits or have to start their care from scratch elsewhere. She explained that clients who cannot be transferred to a new provider may experience delays of up to two months before seeing a psychologist again.

Patients with ongoing mental health conditions such as depression, PTSD, or childhood trauma are particularly vulnerable. Many rely on regular appointments, and the upheaval could lead to disengagement from treatment altogether. The psychologist added that the revolving door of care could discourage some from seeking help in the future, potentially worsening their mental health.

Government and Industry Response

The closures come among concerns about mental health services in Australia. A government review published last year highlighted the challenges faced by private mental health providers, noting a 15 per cent decline in private sector psychiatric services between 2018-19 and 2021-22. The report pointed out difficulties in attracting and retaining psychiatrists within private hospitals, which further strains the system.

Eminent psychiatrist Patrick McGorry warned that the closures could place more pressure on the public system. He emphasised that only about half of those needing mental health care currently access it, often after long delays. McGorry cautioned that reduced private services risk worsening the already strained public sector, which is underfunded in many states.

A spokesperson for the government expressed intent to support affected patients. They encouraged Ramsay to communicate clearly about alternative care options and mentioned plans to expand public mental health services. The government is investing over a billion pounds (roughly $1.32 billion USD) to increase free mental health support across Australia, aiming to ease pressure on private providers.

What Happens Next?

Ramsay says it is not retreating from mental health care but restructuring its approach. The company indicated that the three remaining clinics would continue to operate and that it is exploring ways to expand telehealth options. It also assured patients that it is working with psychologists to ensure their care remains uninterrupted wherever possible.

However, critics argue that the closures could delay treatment for many. The president of the Australian Association of Psychologists, Sahra O'Doherty, described the news as very concerning. She pointed out that delays in seeking help due to costs are already common, and losing clinics could make accessing care even more difficult.