I believe I may have depression (I have a family history of mental illness) and I know that I suffer from an eating disorder, though I have not been diagnosed. I would like to talk to someone and I have full medical coverage through my mom's insurance policy (I am over 18, but covered because I am in college). I don't want to ask her about it unless I'm sure I want to go. Does anyone know if this is generally covered under insurance? thank you.
2007-06-06 17:59:36 · 13 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Mental Health
How much would a visit cost if I have to pay out of pocket?
2007-06-06 18:07:06 · update #1
also how do I get a referral? I don't have a doctor already
2007-06-06 18:07:56 · update #2
to the person who encouraged me to be more active...well thanks, but I actually have a problem with starving myself and overexercising already. it's not helping
2007-06-06 18:10:42 · update #3
Some policies cover psychiatric care, while others don't. If you have an HMO, you will have to get a referral from your primary physician. Since you live away from home, you could try to change your primary physician to someone close to you. You can just tell your mom that you want a doctor nearby in case anything happens. Whether or not you can do this depends on your insurance policy.
Keep in mind that most colleges have on-campus counseling, and it can be free or very cheap. It will either be at the student health center, or affiliated with the psychology department. Do not delay in getting the help you need!
2007-06-06 18:58:40 · answer #1 · answered by jellybeanchick 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It really depends on the insurance. If she has fairly good insurance, it will cover 5-6 visits and have you pay a $25 co-pay. Some therapists will provide services on a sliding scale based on your income. Perhaps your own college has a free therapist? If you go on psychologytoday.com, or something like that, you can find a therapist close to you for sliding scale fee. Also, you should really shop around for therapists because not all of them are very good, as in any industry. But go to a therapist a few times at least before you see a psychiatrist, because psychiatrists are mainly there to dish out meds, and you may or may not need them. Either way, get help!
2007-06-06 18:08:19 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I sell health insurance in michigan.
Generally mental health issues are covered on a limited basis that is capped as a percentage of total benefits for all types of care. That cap percentage is usually quite low...such that you will only be able to see someone for a set period time.
Our profit driven health system is focused on the quick uncomplicated fix and since mental health issues can be anything but and lifelong care issues in some cases, insurers are reluctant to cover much if at all.
You should talk with your mother asap, get your policy out and review it for your benefit limits and triggers. You should try to get a referall from your GP. Work with your therapist now while you are young. Depression does not always get better with age. Consider Yoga and try to be active. It all helps
Good luck
2007-06-06 18:08:33 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most insurance covers a percentage of your medical (mental health) visits as well and medications. The only way you can know for sure is ask your mom, call her insurance company or ask the person who files insurance at the doctors office to check it for you.
2007-06-06 18:03:51 · answer #4 · answered by thearizonapenguin 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends. Some insurances will cover everything, others put a limit on visits, like 6 a year. Most generally, it's not covered, or it's very limited. If you do need help, there are other ways of paying for it. Hospitals have payment plans, and sometimes the state you live in can help, depending on your income. If you are suicidal, the hospital has to take you, regardless of your ability to pay. Please seek help if you feel you need it.
2007-06-06 18:04:13 · answer #5 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am a medical biller and I also have struggled with depression for years. Most insurance companies will cover the services you need. But, you need to call the phone number on the back of your insurance card and ask. That is the only way to know for sure.
Good Luck.
2007-06-06 18:03:16 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
most insurances do cover this. if you can get your hands on your insurance card then give them a call to find out and to see who you can go to. your mom won't know you made the call. also, at any age, even a young child, your privacy rights are protected in that your parents cannot and will not be told that you are seeing a therapist or psychiatrist. you should also see your family doctor asap, you'll be surprised at how much they WILL help you and support you.
2007-06-06 18:05:43 · answer #7 · answered by casw1 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is not possible to generalize about employer-provided insurance policies. You should check with the employer's HR department and/or read the booklet that describes coverage in detail.
2016-05-18 21:31:44 · answer #8 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Usually, they only cover so many days, or so many appointments, something like 30 to 60 days in treatment (which you have to stay in the hospital, or like 12 to 20 appointments.) but they do cover the prescriptions minus your dedutible, no matter how long you have to take it
2007-06-06 18:02:55 · answer #9 · answered by dahorndogd013 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you really don't want your parents to find out, you can have all of your statements addressed to your address at school that way they will never know. ( a friend of mind did this and her parents never found out) just be sure to call your insurance company.
2007-06-06 18:10:55 · answer #10 · answered by breezy 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋