Does My Insurance Cover Therapy?

Due to various reasons, people often tend to ignore the signs of mental health problems. Be it the fear of societal judgement or self-doubt. Globally, 1 in 8 persons suffers from mental illness, and only in India, there are more than 14% of mental health cases that need quick treatment. Out of these, around 80% of people receive no treatment, as per WHO (World Health Organization). 

Mental Health: Not a Myth

Mental health has been gaining attention of millions, yet people are deprived of treatment. It is high time that society as a whole needs to break the stereotype and come together for a happy future. Amid all of this, you may also think, 'does my insurance cover psychotherapy'. 

People often wonder, 'does my insurance cover therapy'. Owing to the rising cases of mental health problems and the lack of proper treatment, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) announced that all health insurance companies have to compulsorily offer mental health illness coverage by 31st October 2022. This article will discuss the queries like 'does my health insurance cover therapy?’ Read on to know more.

Does My Medical Insurance Cover Therapy?

It is obvious for you to think, 'Will my insurance cover therapy?' Since mental health has been a neglected topic for longer than expected, it is obvious for you to think, 'will my insurance cover therapy?'

The answer is ‘Yes’.

A health insurance plan covers the cost of mental health therapy. As per the provisions of the Mental Healthcare Act 2017, it has been announced by IRDAI that every health insurance provider must comply with mental health coverage by October 2022. You no longer have to worry about the  consultation chargers and step back as all the medical expenses are taken care off.  

What is Mental Health and Associated Problems?

The psychological well-being of an individual and a balance of emotions are broadly referred to as good mental health. No matter how physically healthy a person is, it is always the will and the zeal towards life that keeps things going. Hence, having psychological well-being is very important.

However, sometimes, there can be incidents in life that may leave you shocked or give you long-term emotional trauma. Any of these may lead to certain mental health problems, such as:

1. Bipolar Disorder: Different from the everyday ups and downs of moods, a person with bipolar disorder may suffer extreme ups and downs of emotions, and it can be overwhelming.
2. Persistent Depressive Disorder: Also known as dysthymia, people with persistent depressive disorder may find daily activity tough to perform, and the condition may remain for around 2 years.
3. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): People with MDD experience extreme sadness and hopelessness. It may continue for 2 weeks and then longer. The sufferer may find it difficult even to live anymore. 
4. Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD is different from usual everyday anxiety. It may be extreme at some points, like anxiety before a big event. The patient may get extremely nervous.
5. Obsessive-Compulsory Disorder: OCD can cause people to have repetitive thoughts and uncontrollable compulsions. People with OCD may also feel a lack of control towards things they find unreasonable.
6. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD is usually caused by serious, overwhelming incidents like the loss of a loved one(s), wars, accidents, etc. It may cause flashbacks and then continued sadness.
7. Social Anxiety Disorder: People with social anxiety may find it difficult ay difficult to cope with many people around. Attending a social event or huge gathering may be mentally very tough for them.
8. Schizophrenia: Schizophrenia is a condition that needs quick treatment. It may cause hallucinations and other related problems.

What Therapy Does My Insurance Cover?

As aforementioned, a health insurance policy covers the cost of mental health therapy. Here is what it covers:

1. List of Diseases Covered

• Acute depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Obsessive-Compulsory Disorder
• Mood disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Hyperactivity/attention deficit disorder
• Psychological disorders.

2. Consultation and Treatment Expenses

Usually, a mental health insurance plan covers the diagnosis costs, consultation costs, and treatment expenses as well.

3. Counselling and Psychotherapy Sessions

Many people wonder, 'does my insurance cover mental health counselling? Yes, your mental health plan covers the cost of counselling sessions along with psychotherapy. 

4. Hospitalisation Expenses

In some cases, hospitalisations or rehab may be advised. In such a case, the pre and post-hospitalisation and the in-hospitalisation expenses are covered.

How Do I Know if My Insurance Covers Therapy?

After going through the aforementioned information, you may wonder 'how to know if my insurance covers therapy'. There are many ways in which you can know about it:

Step 1:  Ask Your Insurer

The best solution to “how to check if my insurance covers therapy”is to directly ask your healthcare provider. You may call them and ask, “will my health insurance cover therapy”. 

Step 2: Online Insurance Account

You may simply log in to your health insurance account. Here, you can check the coverage of the plan.

Step 3: Ask the Therapist

You may see the therapy sessions from one of the network hospitals of your insurance providers to avail of cashless benefits. Here, you can ask your hospital if they cover the mental health plan that you have.

Let’s Conclude

Mental health problems are serious conditions, and one must not delay in seeking medical help. Now, all the health insurance companies also offer therapy, so you do not have to wonder anymore, 'will my insurance cover a therapist?' Above all, it is important for everyone around, friends and family, to help each other come out of such a situation. Only when you start taking mental health as a normal health issue can the condition get better.

Under Care Supreme plan of Care Health Insurance, the counselling expenses are covered under mental health benefit.  You may check out the plan details and keep yourself updated with the coverage. 

We wish you good health!

>> Also Read: Importance of Pre-policy Health Insurance Check-up

Disclaimers: 

1. The above information is for reference purposes only: Policy Assurance and Claims at the underwriter's discretion.

2. All plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.