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Most health plans have some coverage for counseling. But
usually, coverage is more limited than it is for medical services. The
1996 Mental Health Parity Act made lifetime coverage and annual dollar
limits equal for mental health benefits and benefits for other medical
illnesses. New legislation addressing specifics of mental health
coverage is under debate in Congress, but still has not changed much
since the 1996 legislation. So, since this equality is not accepted by
everyone in the insurance industry, you may find that your coverage
doesn't meet your needs. Some policies only pay for a limited number of
sessions. A managed care policy may limit your choices about whom you
can see. Your insurance may have contracts with certain mental health
providers, but not with others. You also may be reimbursed much less
and have a larger co-pay for your mental health provider than for your
regular doctor visits. Employers who are self-insured may have limited
coverage as well.
If you have trouble understanding how much is covered, ask
your hospital or clinic social worker to help. If there are no free
counseling services in the hospital or clinic where you are being
treated, staff can usually help you get clear information about your
insurance plan and what services are covered. Your oncology team should
also know of services in the community that may use a sliding scale fee
that adjusts to your income. They may be aware of services in the
community offered at low or no cost to you, too.
Although money can be a barrier, it is important that you
persist and get the kind of help you need when you need it. Do not feel
embarrassed about needing support services. Getting mental health
support is a sign of health and strength. Most people will go through
something hard or stressful in their life at some point, and many will
need help to get through it. Give yourself the chance to learn and grow
through the cancer experience and
share that strength with your loved ones.
Go back to Helping
Children When
A Family Member Has Cancer: Understanding Psychosocial Support Services.
Last Medical Review: 05/28/2009
Last Revised: 05/28/2009
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