Changing Plans, Changing Therapists?

I finally found a psychotherapist I like, and now, my employer is changing health carriers.  My therapist is not on the new plan.  She is willing to apply.  That could take months and meanwhile, I might go nuts.  Is there anything I can do?

Talking It Out

Dear Talking It Out,

Yes, you can call the new carrier and ask if they will cover “transition” visits.  That is, will they cover your visits with your therapist as if she were an approved provider, while she goes through their application process?  Many carriers will do this.

Since your therapist is already seeing you – a plan member, the carrier will likely accept her application.  Otherwise, the carrier might reject it based upon already having “enough” therapists in the area.  It does cost the carrier money to vet, enroll, and pay each service provider.

Good luck!

Linda Riddell

About Linda Riddell

A published author and health policy analyst with 25 years’ experience, Linda Riddell's goal is to alleviate the widespread ailment of not knowing what your health plan can do for you.