Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover mental health?

Asked by: Bertha Orn  |  Last update: February 22, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (62 votes)

Mental health conditions are treated just like any other condition. Blue Cross Blue Shield cannot deny you coverage because you have a mental health condition, and they cannot refuse to cover care for any diagnosed condition. Blue Cross Blue Shield will cover mental health care, as long as your treatment is in-network.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover mental health therapy?

Yes, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) generally covers mental health psychiatric therapy and counseling services. This encompasses access to various therapeutic approaches and counseling sessions designed to address diverse mental health needs, ensuring you receive the comprehensive support required for your well-being.

Are mental health issues covered by insurance?

California law provides added security by requiring every health plan in the state to cover certain mental health conditions, including the following: Major depressive disorders. Autism or pervasive developmental disorder. Bipolar disorder.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal cover mental health?

Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program (BCBS FEP) does cover mental health services, and we stand ready to determine if you can apply these benefits at MCAW. We work with BCBS FEP insurance holders individually to explore possible coverage opportunities for our services.

How many physical therapy sessions does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover?

Note: Benefits are limited to 75 visits per person, per calendar year for physical, occupational, or speech therapy, or a combination of all three. Note: Visits that you pay for while meeting your calendar year deductible count toward the limit cited above.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Mental Health Therapy? - Psychological Clarity

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How much does it cost to see a physical therapist with insurance?

How Much Does Physical Therapy Cost With Insurance? Physical therapy costs $20-55 per session. Most insurance providers can cover at least 50 percent of the costs. But coverage is only accessible after you've paid your yearly deductible, which could range from $250 to $1250 or higher.

Does Blue Cross require a referral for physical therapy?

Similar to Blue Cross-Blue Shield, and Aetna, Medicare generally allows for direct access to physical therapy services without a referral. It's important to note that policies can change, and the best way to get accurate and up-to-date information is to contact your insurance provider directly.

Do mental hospitals take insurance?

Mental health hospitalizations are typically covered by insurance including Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial plans. With Medicare, you pay your Part A deductible (which is $1,632 in 2024) for the first 60 days in the hospital, then 20% of the cost for services provided by healthcare professionals while you're there.

How do I find out my copay Blue Cross Blue Shield?

Your BCBS ID card may include a list of the co-pay amounts you can expect to pay for common services, like a doctor's visit or trip to the emergency room.

What insurance has the best mental health coverage?

UnitedHealthcare takes our spot for the best overall mental health coverage primarily because of its comprehensive approach. With UnitedHealthcare, you have access to 24/7 treatment and support through a wide range of online, virtual and mobile tools.

Why doesn t insurance pay for mental health?

The parity law does not require insurers to provide mental health benefits—rather, the law states that if mental health benefits are offered, they can't have more restrictive requirements than those that apply to physical health benefits.

How to pay for mental health treatment?

Most mental health plans have either a copay or a deductible. If you have a copay plan, this means you pay a set amount each time you have an appointment. For example, if your plan's copay is $40, you will pay $40 per session, and your insurance will cover the remainder of your balance.

Is Blue Cross Blue Shield expensive?

Is Blue Cross Blue Shield expensive? Compared to other major health insurance companies, Blue Cross Blue Shield is relatively expensive. The average monthly cost of a Silver plan from Blue Cross Blue Shield is $603 per month, based on a 40-year-old individual.

How much is the copay for therapy blue cross blue shield?

If you choose a therapist who is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, your therapy sessions likely cost between $15 - $50 per session, after you meet your deductible. The $15 - $50 amount is your copay, or the fixed amount that you owe at each therapy visit.

Is Blue Cross Blue Shield Basic a PPO?

The Basic plan from BC Life & Health is a PPO that covers you for hospital care and other expensive health services.

How much does a week in a mental hospital cost with insurance?

With health insurance coverage, the cost of inpatient mental health psychiatric services typically involves paying a copayment, coinsurance, or deductible. On average, you might pay between $100 and $500 per day, depending on your insurance plan and the specific services provided.

How to find a therapist covered by insurance?

You can access an online directory of insurance companies or see a list of all the providers in your network on your insurance's website. You can also call your insurance company to determine if a therapist is in-network. It's important to consider your needs before deciding who you want to work with.

How long is an inpatient mental health stay?

Inpatient mental health stays can vary in duration depending on the individual's needs and progress. Short-term stays typically last from a few days to a couple of weeks, focusing on crisis stabilization and immediate support for acute symptoms.

How many physical therapy visits does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover?

Coverage for Physical Therapy is limited to 40 visits per benefit period. Coverage for Occupational Therapy is limited to 40 visits per benefit period. Coverage for speech therapy is limited to 40 visits per benefit period. Coverage for Physical Therapy is limited to 40 visits per benefit period.

What to do when your doctor will not give you a referral?

You can ask them why they will not refer you and request they reconsider. If they still refuse, you may want to think about finding another primary care provider who is a better fit. Your health and well-being deserve the best care possible.

Can insurance deny physical therapy?

The goal of insurers is to pay out the least amount possible, so physical therapy may be denied simply because of the cost, regardless of the fact that your doctor believes the therapy will definitely help you recover more quickly while minimizing pain.

How many PT sessions does insurance cover?

Coverage Limits: Many insurance plans limit the number of annual physical therapy visits, often covering 20 to 60 sessions, depending on your plan and medical necessity.

How much is 12 sessions of physical therapy?

The national average per session cost of physical therapy can range from $30 - $400. However, with a qualified insurance plan, once your deductible is met, your total out-of-pocket cost typically ranges from $20-$60. If you do not have insurance, you may be paying between $50-$155 out-of-pocket.