Due to the continued hardships from the coronavirus pandemic, President Biden signed an executive order for a special COVID-19 open enrollment period in 2021. From February 15th to May 15th, people can enroll in or change their health plans through HealthCare.gov without the need for a qualifying event. This special enrollment period is open to both people who are uninsured as well as those who want to change their current marketplace coverage. Several state-run exchanges using HealthCare.gov are also offering special enrollment periods in the coming weeks, but deadlines and stipulations vary.
Insurance for Behavioral Health Care
This special COVID open enrollment period comes at a much-needed time for many Americans as the coronavirus pandemic and economic downturn have left many unemployed and consequently, without health insurance. Along with the risk of getting physically sick from COVID-19, the coronavirus pandemic has also led to an increase in the need for behavioral health treatment as substance use and mental health conditions have been on the rise. Although these conditions may be getting worse, without insurance many people may be hesitant to get the help they need for fear of how they will be able to pay for it. While insurance plans can vary in coverage, mental health and substance use disorders are considered essential health benefits by all marketplace plans.1 Employer-sponsored group insurance plans often cover these services as well but can be much more inconstant in coverage.2 Because of the variability of health insurance plans, you should talk with your insurance provider to learn more about your specific coverage. If you are in need of substance use or mental health care but didn’t get help before because of your health insurance, this special enrollment period gives you the opportunity to change that. Instead of struggling through a behavioral health condition alone, get the care you need covered. At Vertava Health, we partner with several major health insurance providers to help people get the treatment they need to work toward a bright future. Contact us today to talk about your insurance coverage. We will work with you to determine what programs are covered or walk you through private pay options if necessary.
