It’s difficult to understate the dangerous effects of eating disorders. According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, 24 million Americans suffer from an eating disorder. Even more troubling, such disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness.
That means it’s critical to seek help as quickly as possible. Before you do, however, it’s important to review your insurance coverage.
AmeriHealth Eating Disorder Coverage
AmeriHealth offers coverage for eating disorders and other associated mental illnesses. If you’re suffering from this condition, AmeriHealth typically pays for treatment with a physician, psychologist, therapist or qualified counselor.
Individual policies often vary, so it’s important to determine which specific treatments your policy covers and how much the insurer will pay. Policyholders should also take note of which physicians fall under the approved network of providers. Failure to do so could result in significant unplanned expenses.
What Kind of Services Will AmeriHealth Eating Disorder Coverage Pay For?
AmeriHealth will typically cover, wholly or partially, all medically necessary treatments for eating disorders. These include:
- Outpatient treatment and services
- Inpatient rehab for more serious disorders
- Counseling or therapeutic services
- Aftercare or repeat visits to treatment
Many people who suffer from eating disorders have other mental issues with which they must contend. Sometimes these issues are treated in concert with an eating disorder, as the two may be related. Insurance will typically cover some or all of the costs associated with dual treatment.
How Long Will AmeriHealth Eating Disorder Coverage Last?
The typical inpatient stay lasts between 30 and 90 days, though serious eating disorders may require more time in a facility. AmeriHealth requires pre-authorization before inpatient treatment, however. Failing to secure this authorization may result in serious additional expenses.
Outpatient coverage depends on the individual case and policy, though treatments also typically last a minimum of one to three months.
If you feel the need for services outside your coverage, or for treatment of longer duration, you may always pay the difference out of pocket.
More Information About AmeriHealth Eating Disorder Coverage
If you or a loved one are dealing with an eating disorder, it’s vital to take action to address the problem immediately. Please visit AmeriHealth’s webpage for more information about their eating disorder coverage.