Does Aetna Cover Mental Health?

As a meditation instructor and mental wellness coach, I often receive queries about health insurance coverage for mental health treatment. Aetna, a health insurance company, offers various plans that cover costs associated with mental health. The level of coverage you receive depends largely on the specifics of your plan.

Under the Affordable Care Act, Aetna and other health insurance companies must cover care for mental health conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Essentially, mental health conditions are treated just like any other medical condition. 

Your insurance company cannot deny you coverage because you have a mental health condition, and they cannot refuse to cover care for any diagnosed condition. Aetna typically covers treatment options deemed a medical necessity by a health professional. Usually, Aetna considers mental and behavioral health treatment as specialist treatment, which may cost slightly more than a general physician visit.

Aetna’s Mental Health Coverage

Aetna’s mental health coverage is comprehensive and includes various forms of therapy, medication therapy, and support from your primary care doctor. However, it’s essential to remember that what Aetna may cover is dependent on the plan you select and also on the medical necessity of the treatment. 

As such, your benefit plan determines the specifics of your mental health coverage. For example, if you need a prescription drug for a mental health condition, Aetna may cover costs depending on your plan and the drug’s medical necessity.

Mental Health Support 

Understanding the level of mental health support offered in Aetna’s health plans is crucial when scheduling an appointment or formulating a treatment plan. Aetna’s coverage includes in-person and online therapy sessions, allowing for flexibility and ease of access. It is particularly beneficial for those who may find it challenging to travel for appointments or those who prefer the convenience of virtual health visits.

Moreover, Aetna strongly values the confidentiality of a patient’s medical record. Any record of your mental health care, including diagnoses and treatment plans, is kept strictly confidential and protected. 

It ensures that your mental health history will not be made public or available as part of a background check without your consent. It also reassures those seeking mental health support that their privacy will be respected and preserved.

Behavioral Therapy

Aetna’s mental health coverage includes behavioral therapy. Behavioral therapy is a broad category that encompasses a variety of therapies designed to treat mental health disorders. These therapies aim to identify and change potentially self-destructive or unhealthy behaviors. Behavioral therapy’s inclusion in your coverage depends upon your plan type and the medical advice of your health professional.

Furthermore, Aetna also offers access to online therapy. Thus, you can receive mental health support from the comfort of your home, making therapy more accessible and less intimidating for many. However, your benefit plan determines the extent of coverage for online therapy. So, it’s always best to check the specifics of your plan beforehand.

Medication Therapy 

Medication therapy is a crucial part of many mental health treatment plans, and Aetna provides coverage for this. Many conditions, including substance use disorders, can be effectively managed with the right medications. Aetna recognizes this and offers coverage for various prescribed drugs that help in managing symptoms and improving overall mental well-being.

Your primary healthcare provider plays a crucial role in this process. They can discuss your medications with you, explaining how they work and their importance. They can also help you manage any potential side effects and answer questions about other possible treatments. 

Even if you start to feel better, you should have an open conversation with your healthcare provider. They can guide you on how to take your medicine as prescribed, and together, you can chart the next steps in your wellness journey.

Primary Care Doctor’s Role in Mental Health

Aetna is a health insurance company that offers a wide range of plans, including individual plans, business plans, Medicare, and Medicaid. Regardless of your plan type, Aetna covers some or all costs associated with mental health care. That is due to the Affordable Care Act, which legally requires Aetna and other health insurance companies to cover care for mental health conditions like depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.

Mental health conditions are treated just like any other conditions. Your insurance company cannot deny you coverage because you have a mental health condition, and they cannot refuse to cover care for any diagnosed condition. If your treatment is in-network, Aetna will cover it. 

Under most Aetna plans, mental and behavioral health treatment is considered a type of specialist treatment. That’s why insurance for mental health treatment may cost slightly more than a regular doctor visit. However, your primary care doctor plays a pivotal role in your mental health treatment, guiding you through your journey and coordinating your care.

Types of Therapy Covered by Aetna

Aetna’s mental health coverage is comprehensive and includes various types of therapy. Understanding what’s covered can help you make informed decisions about your treatment plan and ensure you get the help you need. Your specific coverage will depend on your plan, but Aetna strives to offer a wide range of options to cater to the diverse needs of its members.

Online Therapy

In recent years, online therapy has grown in popularity due to its convenience and accessibility. Recognizing this trend, Aetna has included online therapy in its mental health coverage. Aetna members can access mental health providers anytime, anywhere, making therapy more accessible for those with busy schedules or those living in remote areas.

Your coverage for online therapy is dependent upon your plan type. It’s always a good idea to check with Aetna directly to understand what your plan covers. Aetna’s approach to online therapy demonstrates the company’s commitment to adapting to modern healthcare practices and providing comprehensive mental health resources to its members.

Couples Therapy

As a mental wellness coach, I often encounter couples seeking therapy to navigate relationship struggles. Aetna does provide coverage for couples therapy. This is beneficial as it creates a supportive environment for couples to work through their issues together, fostering a stronger bond and better communication.

However, the extent of coverage can vary depending on your specific Aetna plan. This includes individual and family health plans, employer-sponsored plans, and high-deductible health plans. Always review your plan details or contact Aetna directly to see what is covered and what your out-of-pocket costs may be.

Teen Therapy

Teen years can be challenging, with emotional and physical changes often leading to mental health challenges. Aetna understands the importance of providing mental health coverage for teenagers. Their coverage extends to recognized therapy services like Newport Academy, which specializes in teen depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.

The services offered by these specialist centers can be instrumental in combating the rising mental health issues among youth. If your teen or young adult is under an Aetna insurance plan, this mental health or substance abuse treatment may be part of your coverage. As always, I recommend consulting with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your coverage.

Psychiatry Services

For more severe cases requiring psychiatric intervention, Aetna offers coverage for various services. Compassion Behavioral Health, one of the providers that accepts Aetna insurance, offers outpatient and inpatient detoxification services. These services can be critical in helping individuals overcome substance abuse and addiction.

The extent of coverage can vary, with some patients eligible for inpatient detoxification depending on their mental health condition and the severity of their substance abuse problem. 

Additionally, Aetna also provides coverage for residential rehabilitation and intensive outpatient treatment. It’s essential to review your plan details or contact Aetna directly to confirm what psychiatric services are a part of your coverage.

Common Mental Conditions Covered by Aetna

Under the Affordable Care Act, Aetna must cover various mental health conditions. This means that regardless of your Aetna plan, they will cover some or all of your costs associated with mental health treatment. This coverage extends to conditions like depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and PTSD. However, it’s important to ensure that your treatment provider is within Aetna’s network to maximize your coverage benefits.

Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental health challenges faced by many individuals. Aetna provides coverage for depression treatment. This includes therapy sessions and prescribed medication, depending on the severity of your condition and the recommendation of your healthcare provider.

However, it’s important to remember that under most Aetna plans, mental and behavioral health treatment is a type of specialist treatment. This could mean higher out-of-pocket costs compared to a regular physician visit. As always, it’s best to review your plan details or contact Aetna directly for specific information on your coverage for depression treatment.

Anxiety

Understanding the scope of Aetna’s mental health coverage is essential for those dealing with anxiety disorders. As a leading health insurance provider, Aetna offers a variety of plans, including individual and business plans, as well as Medicare and Medicaid. All of these plans encompass some level of mental health care coverage, including for anxiety disorders.

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, Aetna, like all health insurance companies, is legally required to care for mental health conditions. Regardless of your specific plan, if your treatment for anxiety is in-network, Aetna will cover it. Mental health conditions, including anxiety, are treated just like any other medical condition, ensuring that you cannot be denied coverage because of your mental health status.

PTSD

Aetna, with its wide range of plans, provides coverage for various mental health conditions, including Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The coverage includes the costs associated with the mental health care required for treating PTSD. Similar to the coverage for anxiety, this is a requirement under the Affordable Care Act, making it mandatory for insurance companies to offer mental health coverage.

Under most Aetna plans, mental health treatment, including for PTSD, is categorized as specialist treatment. This means that while the insurance covers this treatment, it may cost slightly more than a general health treatment. However, you can rest assured that as long as your PTSD treatment is in-network, Aetna will cover it.

Prescribed Medication

Prescribed medication forms a crucial part of many mental health treatment plans. Aetna’s coverage extends to include this vital aspect of mental health care as well. So, regardless of your plan with Aetna, you can expect some or all of your prescribed medication costs to be covered.

Just like with treatment for specific mental health conditions, as long as your prescribed medication is in-network, Aetna will cover it. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that any medication prescribed by your healthcare provider is included in Aetna’s coverage to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Aetna’s Mental Health Coverage With Talkspace

Understanding Aetna’s mental health coverage becomes more comprehensive when considering its partnership with Talkspace, an online therapy platform. This collaboration aims to make mental health care more accessible and convenient for Aetna members. 

Mental Health Coverage With Talkspace and Aetna

For mental health coverage, Aetna and Talkspace have collaborated to offer a comprehensive approach. The extent of the coverage would depend on your Aetna plan. The services include access to licensed therapists who provide clinically proven treatment methods. It’s a convenience-oriented approach, offering users access to therapy seven days a week, right from the comfort of their homes.

Privacy is a priority, and any diagnosed mental condition is a medical concern, protected as part of a patient’s confidential medical record. This ensures peace of mind for patients, knowing their mental health records are secure and private.

How to Get Started With Talkspace & Aetna

Starting with Talkspace and Aetna is an uncomplicated process. It begins by checking your eligibility to see what coverage you can avail of through your Aetna insurance plan. A quick assessment follows, where you’ll answer a few questions to establish your mental health needs.

Based on your responses, Talkspace will match you with a suitable provider within a few days. That marks the beginning of your journey towards improved mental health. It’s a user-friendly way to access professional mental health services tailored to your unique needs.

Aetna’s Mental Health Provider Network

Aetna’s mental health provider network is robust and diverse. It includes a variety of therapists and prescribers to cater to various mental health needs. Once again, privacy is a critical consideration, with patient’s mental health care records kept confidential and protected, just like any other medical records. This network forms a comprehensive ecosystem designed to provide mental health support to those in need.

Accessing Mental Health Care Across All 50 States

Irrespective of your location in the US, Aetna’s mental health coverage extends across all 50 states. Whether you have an individual plan, a business plan, or Aetna Medicare, each offers some degree of coverage for mental health care. This breadth of coverage is attributable to the Affordable Care Act, which mandates insurance companies to cover care for mental health conditions like depression.

Depression screening, for instance, is one of the many services covered under most Aetna plans. The company treats mental health conditions just like any other diagnosed condition – denying coverage because you have a mental health condition is not permissible. As long as your treatment is in-network, Aetna will cover it, making mental health care accessible and affordable.

Diversity in Aetna’s Therapist & Prescriber Network

As I’ve come to understand, Aetna’s commitment to diversity is evident in its extensive network of healthcare providers. These professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise from over 150 different areas. This ensures a broad spectrum of care options to cater to the unique needs of individuals seeking mental health support. Moreover, it’s heartening to see that over a third of these providers self-identify as BIPOC, further emphasizing Aetna’s dedication to inclusivity.

In addition, the Aetna network also demonstrates a significant focus on LGBTQIA+ issues, with around 30% of their professionals having experience in this area. This is an essential factor in providing compassionate, understanding, and effective care to all members, irrespective of their identity or background. Aetna has made great strides in ensuring its network is as diverse as the people it serves.

Qualifications of Aetna’s Provider Network

When discussing the qualifications of Aetna’s provider network, it’s important to highlight that these professionals are not just diverse in their backgrounds but also highly qualified. Each of the therapists and prescribers within this network is fully trained, licensed, insured, and credentialed. What’s more, they are all certified according to the rigorous standards of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). This ensures that members get the highest quality of care.

Moreover, the QuickMatch™ feature of Aetna facilitates access to these professionals across all 50 states within days of signup, on average. This accessibility underscores Aetna’s commitment to making mental health services available to those who need them and on time. Ultimately, the qualifications and accessibility of Aetna’s provider network play a vital role in the delivery of evidence-based clinical care nationwide.

Relationship Between Aetna and CVS Health

Unraveling the relationship between Aetna and CVS Health reveals an intriguing intersection of healthcare and pharmacy services. Aetna is a major health insurance company offering various plans, while CVS Health is a leading pharmacy innovation company. 

As part of the CVS Health family, Aetna provides more integrated health services. In many cases, this includes mental health coverage. As costs vary, it’s important to understand that the specific coverage details depend on the individual plan chosen by the member.

Aetna’s Incorporation Into the CVS Health Family

Aetna’s incorporation into the CVS Health family marked a significant shift in the healthcare landscape. This integration brought together two industry giants, expanding the range and reach of services available to members. By becoming a part of CVS Health, Aetna has enhanced its offerings, including mental health services, by leveraging the resources and network of CVS.

However, it’s important to note that while Aetna is now part of the CVS Health family, it maintains its own distinct identity and continues to uphold its commitment to providing quality healthcare. This includes a focus on mental health, where Aetna strives to meet the diverse needs of its members with a variety of treatment options and a vast network of qualified professionals. As a result, the integration into CVS Health has allowed Aetna to further its mission of fostering healthier communities.

Benefits from CVS Health Virtual Care™

Another benefit Aetna offers through its association with CVS Health is the Virtual Care™ service. This service includes access to virtual mental health providers who can diagnose and treat a range of mental health conditions. The convenience of virtual mental health services cannot be overstated, especially during times when physical distancing is necessary.

Virtual Care™ allows individuals to access support from the comfort of their homes. The service caters to various needs, ensuring everyone can find a virtual mental health provider that fits their unique situation. The benefits of this service extend beyond just convenience, as it also brings mental health care to those who may not otherwise have access to it.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Wrapping Up

Aetna is a brand committed to providing comprehensive mental health coverage to its members. From anxiety and depression to PTSD, Aetna’s coverage extends to various therapy types, including online therapy, behavioral therapy, and medication therapy. As part of their health plans, they offer POS II and Aetna Open Access Managed benefits, providing access to a diverse therapist and provider network.

Remember that these providers are independent contractors and are not agents of Aetna. They contribute their expertise to the Aetna health network, offering quality mental health services across all 50 states. 

Aetna’s relationship with CVS Health also enables them to offer additional benefits, like Medicare coverage and management support services, to MinuteClinic-branded walk-in clinics. Mental health is a journey, and having the right coverage can make that journey easier.