Behavioral health is a critical component of overall health, yet access to behavioral health services remains a significant challenge for many people.
Health plans can play a vital role in improving access to behavioral health services by implementing strategies that remove barriers and improve the quality of care. This article will explore some of the ways health plans can improve behavioral health access.
Expand the Provider Network
One of the most significant barriers to accessing behavioral health services is a shortage of providers. Health plans can address this issue by expanding their provider networks. This may involve contracting with additional behavioral health providers or incentivizing existing providers to expand their services. Health plans can also consider partnering with community-based organizations and other non-traditional providers to increase access to behavioral health services in underserved areas.
Offer Telehealth Services
Telehealth services have become increasingly popular in recent years and offer a convenient and cost-effective way for patients to access behavioral health services. Health plans can encourage the use of telehealth services by offering incentives to providers who offer these services and promoting them to patients. This can be especially beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility or transportation issues.
Increase Mental Health Parity Compliance
The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 requires health plans to provide the same level of coverage for mental health and substance use disorders as they do for other medical conditions. However, many health plans do not fully comply with this law, which can result in limited access to behavioral health services. Health plans can improve access to behavioral health services by increasing their compliance with mental health parity laws and ensuring that their coverage is consistent with these laws.
Offer Integrated Care
Integrated care, also known as collaborative care, involves the integration of behavioral health services into primary care settings. This approach can improve access to behavioral health services by making them more readily available and reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.