The Community Service Society of New York, in conjunction with New York State and the Legal Action Center, have launched a new ombudsman program for individuals who need help accessing mental health care, including for substance abuse issues. The Community Health Access to Addiction and Mental Healthcare Project (CHAMP) will provide information about insurance rights, assistance appealing denials for mental health and addiction care, and counseling on low-cost care options.
Individuals who need assistance can call the CHAMP helpline at
888-614-5400. Medicare beneficiaries can also continue to call the Medicare Rights Center at 800-333-4114 for help accessing Medicare-covered treatments and medications.