Untreated eating disorders often have serious and even fatal consequences. They are also more prevalent than you may think — an estimated 24 million Americans suffer from an eating disorder. Many of those afflicted also suffer from secondary illnesses, such as anxiety or depression. If you suffer from anorexia, bulimia or episodes of uncontrolled binge eating, it’s vitally important to seek help.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association Eating Disorder Coverage
Many insurers offer coverage for eating disorders, and this includes Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Yet while the company will cover treatment costs, the specific type and amount of coverage varies by state. That means it’s important to verify the particular details of your policy.
What Services Will Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association Eating Disorder Coverage Pay For?
The services each policyholder is eligible for varies by geographic area. Generally speaking, however, Blue Cross and Blue Shield may cover:
- Outpatient treatment at a physician’s office or treatment center
- Inpatient therapy at a treatment center or medical center
- Executive or luxury center treatment
- Hospitalization arising from an eating disorder
- Counseling
The type of treatment recommended is typically tied to the severity of the problem. Those with more severe symptoms may require intensive inpatient therapy.
Insurance carriers such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield generally pay for any medically necessary costs which may arise as a result of eating disorders or mental illness.
How Much Will Blue Cross and Blue Shield Eating Disorder Coverage Pay For?
Payment for services varies between states, so it’s important to check your individual policy. Should the services you received be deemed medically necessary, it is highly likely Blue Cross and Blue Shield will cover some if not all of the costs involved.
If you’d like to pursue additional treatment, or opt for more expensive services that aren’t covered, you may always self-pay the difference between what the insurer will cover and the total cost.
How Long Will Blue Cross and Blue Shield Eating Disorder Coverage Last?
This, too, varies by individual policy and by state. Yet generally speaking most treatment regimens last between a few weeks and a few months. In specialized cases long-term treatments are necessary, as eating disorders sometimes require intensive care to treat successfully.
Your insurance will also most likely cover repeat visits to treatment, and aftercare should it be deemed medically necessary.
Eating disorders are serious business. Without early medical intervention, they often have ruinous effects on quality of life and health. If you or a loved one needs assistance, please visit the Blue Cross and Blue Shield website for more information.