Consumer Alert: Mental Health Insurance Coverage
Commissioner
Miller is informing consumers about insurance coverage for mental health
services. Mental health issues peak during the winter months, and nearly 10
million Americans experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
If you have
health insurance, your insurance company will have a list of providers that are
covered by your plan. Your primary care provider may be able to refer you to a
mental health specialist who meets your needs. When insurance plans cover
mental health benefits, those mental health services must be covered at parity with your medical coverage.
Under the
Affordable Care Act, coverage under individual and small employer health
insurance plans has been expanded to cover mental health and substance use
disorders. Also, preventive services like depression and anxiety screenings are
now covered by most plans at no additional cost.
If you
purchased health insurance through the federal marketplace, your plan must
cover inpatient care, outpatient care, emergency care, and prescription drugs
for mental health and substance use disorder treatment, including behavioral
health treatment. If you have a pre-existing mental or behavioral health condition,
you cannot be denied coverage or be charged more when purchasing health
insurance through the marketplace.
If you
experience a life change - like a divorce, having a baby, or losing a job - you
may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in health insurance
through the federal marketplace at www.HealthCare.gov.
If you have
questions regarding mental health insurance coverage, please contact our Consumer Services
Bureau at 1-877-881-6388.