A coroner has called for ‘red flag’ alerts to be added to GP practice software to prompt more assertive follow-up of patients taking psychotropic medication, after the deaths of a Melbourne mother and daughter.

The recommendation follows the inquest into the death of three-year-old Aziza Beck at the hands of her mother, Aisha Beck, in 2017.

Mrs Beck, who had been diagnosed with brief psychotic disorder – abrupt onset, shot her daughter before turning the firearm on herself. 

According to findings handed down last week by the Victorian deputy state coroner, Mrs Beck probably experienced a first psychotic episode in September 2015 when, in a highly distressed state, she approached the homes of her neighbours and asked for help.