United Healthcare Rehabs In Maryland – Insurance Coverage
When patients realize that they have a problem with substance abuse, it can feel overwhelming and frightening. Patients want to know how to get back on track and save their health and their lives. The right rehab treatment can be that missing piece. When patients receive therapy, they learn coping skills that help them lead a healthier lifestyle. They receive the medical help they need to rid their bodies of the harmful substances while also becoming mentally strong and ready to take on a new lifestyle.
What stands in the way of many patients, however, is cost. Since substance abuse care requires more than just a session or two– and can even last years when after care is included– the costs can seem prohibitive. Fortunately, insurance companies are required to provide coverage thanks to the Affordable Care Act, but there are differences from plan to plan, even from the same company. It is important for patients and their loved ones to familiarize themselves with the types of care offered from their specific insurance so that they can make the optimal decision about which providers to use while still avoiding unnecessary out-of-pocket costs.
United Healthcare Substance Abuse Coverage in Maryland
There are three classifications for health insurance plans from United Healthcare in Maryland: gold, silver and bronze. These classifications describe characteristics of the plans, such as the monthly payment, the amount of care that the plan covers and the deductible. Patients in Maryland should familiarize themselves with the options available under these classifications.
The plans offered by United Healthcare generally have a few similarities. Most of the plans do not offer coverage for providers who are outside of the network. This means that you will need to find treatment through their list of providers, which can make the search for quality care easier for many people.
The plans also have stipulations, such as they do not cover treatment that is given by or billed by halfway houses. Patients who need additional aftercare will have to make sure that they budget for this type of help. The plans also indicate that they do not cover treatments that are not considered medically necessary, which means that those interested in pursuing alternate forms of treatment, such as various forms of holistic care, should speak with their providers and their insurance representatives to see what will be covered. The plans do generally, however, cover some alternate therapies, such as chiropractic adjustments. It is worth investigating if your plan will cover the particular treatment you need.
It is important to note that some of the plans offered in Maryland will require you to get a referral to see a specialist while others do not. If you do need a referral, then you will be able to work with a physician who knows you personally and can help offer guidance about the options available in substance abuse treatment. On the other hand, if you do not need a referral, you may have more flexibility to see the specialists and receive the care that you prefer.
Gold
The Gold Level plans will have the highest premiums but the lowest deductibles. Your copayments might be about $20 to $30 (based on 2015 rates) for visits or you might have a coinsurance requirement.
Silver
There are a couple of Silver Level plans available in Maryland from United Healthcare. Treatment is usually billed with a portion for coinsurance and a copay due at admission. You will have a higher copay than those at the gold level, but you also have lower premiums each month.
Bronze
The Bronze Level plans will have lower premiums but higher copays than the silver and gold plans. For mental health services, you might have 0 percent coinsurance rates for inpatient and outpatient care.
For patients struggling with substance abuse, finding the treatment is a critical part of getting on the path towards sobriety. What many people must consider, however, is the cost. Fortunately, insurance can be valuable for helping patients save money and budget for their optimal treatment. When patients are familiar with what is covered by their insurance plan, they can make the right decision about providers and facilities– thereby avoiding unnecessary out-of-pocket costs while still receiving the best treatment possible. Patients should always speak with an insurance representative before making decisions.
