I thought this would be a good topic to cover, about Medicare, since we all might need a little help from 2020 and the world-wide COVID19 epidemic we are all in; and has carried over to 2021.
Well, what about therapy and mental health? When needing therapy sessions, make sure the provider(s) are in the network.
When needing OUTPATIENT mental health, services covered (falls under Part B) with Medicare Advantage are:
- Individual and group therapy
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Tests to make sure you are getting the right care
- Occupational therapy
- Activity therapies, such as art, dance, or music therapy
- Training and education (such as training on how to inject a needed medication or education about your condition)
- Family counseling to help with your treatment
- Laboratory tests
- Prescription drugs that you cannot administer yourself, such as injections that a doctor must give you
- An annual depression screening (speak to your primary care provider for more information)
For Medicare Advantage plans, see the SUMMARY OF BENEFITS to understand how that Part C (Medicare Advantage) plan will cover outpatient mental health. If you see an out-of-network provider you will most likely pay a percentage instead of a flat copay; and no medical deductible for my Medicare Advantage plan clients.
For outpatient hospital mental health program, this coverage would apply to doctor’s office, therapist office, or at a clinic. Providers would include:
- General practitioners
- Nurse practitioners
- Physicians’ assistants
- Psychiatrists
- Clinical psychologists
- Clinical social workers
- Clinical nurse specialists
For Medicare Advantage Plan, call your plan directly for a list of mental health care providers in your plan’s network. This Customer Service number can be found on the back of your Medicare Advantage plan card for help and information.
You can also go directly to your Medicare Advantage plan’s website for a list of providers.
