Coverage tips

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Learn about mental health resources and treatment coverage with LifeWise.
August 21, 2023   |   3 minute read
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Crisis lifelines and immediate help


If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening mental health or medical emergency, call 911. For persons experiencing an emotional distress crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (24/7), or chat with a counselor at 988lifeline.org.

For LifeWise plan members, emergency Behavioral Health Services provided by an emergency behavioral health services provider are always covered in network and out of network.

 

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 

Mental health conditions that can lead to suicidal thoughts can happen to anyone. Suicidal thoughts should never be considered normal. 

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. At LifeWise, we want you to know that your LifeWise plan includes support for mental and behavioral health issues that can lead to suicidal thoughts. Eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and many other issues that can affect mental health are covered as specialty care under your LifeWise plan. 

Where to start

Your primary care provider can find the best mental health professional for you or a covered family member. Use the Find Care tool to check that the referred therapist is in your plan’s network. Please contact a LifeWise customer service rep if you are having trouble scheduling an appointment or finding a provider within 15 days of referral. Our number is on the back of your LifeWise ID card. 

Virtual care is also an option. You can video chat with a doctor using Doctor on Demand, or use Bolder Care for virtual opioid or alcohol use disorder treatment for adults age 18 and older.  

From there, your specialty care provider may recommend other types of care. Coverage is dependent on what your provider recommends. Types of care include inpatient and outpatient care at a hospital, state psychiatric hospital, or a designated treatment and evaluation facility.

If you’re trying to help a friend or family member through a mental health issue, our customer service representatives can help answer questions about in-network treatment options. Just have the member’s health plan name when you contact us. Keep in mind, due to privacy laws we will not be able to offer health information about that individual. 

Minors from 13 to 18 years of age may receive mental health or substance abuse treatment without consent from parents or guardians. At LifeWise, we’re mandated to respect patient rights to privacy laws. Claims, therefore, may not be viewable by parents or spouses through the online member account, Nor can they speak to a customer service representative about claims unless permission has been granted by the member. 

See additional mental health resources and learn more about member coverage for mental and behavioral health issues. 

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