Mental Health and Medicare

After more than two years of COVID-19, mental health is understandably a big topic of discussion. People across the country have struggled with isolation, disruptions to their normal routines, the worry about getting sick, and the loss of loved ones. This has definitely taken a toll.

For seniors, the pandemic has been especially difficult. According to an April, 2022 Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) analysis, “more than two years into the pandemic – one in six adults 65 and older (16%) reported anxiety and depression.” Separate KFF polling finds that “nearly a third of adults 65 and older (32%) say that worry or stress related to coronavirus has had a negative impact on their mental health.”

These findings are included in a new KFF frequently-asked-questions article entitled “FAQs on Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Coverage in Medicare.”

This is a resource that might be worth passing on to your current Medicare clients. You don’t always know who is struggling, especially if you talk with your clients infrequently, but, statistically, some of your clients could use help.

The FAQs piece is very detailed and includes information about coverage and cost sharing for mental health and substance use disorder benefits under Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.

Here are just a few of the questions answered in the article:

• What mental health benefits and substance use disorder benefits does Medicare cover?
• How much do Medicare beneficiaries pay for mental health benefits and substance use disorder benefits?
• Which health providers can bill Medicare directly for mental health and substance use disorder services, and how much does Medicare pay for these services?
• What Medicare-covered telehealth mental health and substance use disorder benefits have been extended beyond the public health emergency?
• How are mental health benefits and substance use disorder benefits covered under Medicare Advantage plans?

The article ends by discussing some of the proposed policies related to Medicare’s mental health and substance use disorder benefits. With both parties acknowledging the need for more mental health services, it’s possible we could see some legislative action in the coming months.

During the “slow time” of the year – outside of the annual election period – keeping in touch with clients can be a challenge. Sending useful articles like this can help agents stay in front of their Medicare clients and could really benefit those who don’t know what type of help is available. So do yourself a favor: spend a few minutes reading through the FAQs, and if you fell it is a good resource, be sure to pass it on.