Navigating the world of insurance can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re seeking help for an eating disorder. At Remedy Therapy for Eating Disorders, we’re here to guide you through understanding what insurance typically covers, what steps to take, and how to advocate for your care.
Why This Matters
Eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and ARFID are serious mental health conditions with both physical and psychological impacts. Treatment often involves a mix of medical care, therapy, nutrition counseling, and sometimes higher levels of care like partial hospitalization or residential treatment. These add up—so knowing how insurance can help is crucial.
What Insurance Typically Covers
Outpatient Therapy
Most plans under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) cover mental health services, including individual and group therapy, at rates similar to other medical benefits. Look for in-network providers—copays and deductibles will vary depending on your plan.
Nutrition Counseling
Medical nutrition therapy is often covered when provided by a registered dietitian. This might be combined with therapy or billed separately. Verify whether your plan requires dietitians to be in-network for lower costs.
Medical Monitoring
Routine check-ups with physicians—especially if they involve lab tests, EKGs, or other monitoring—are generally covered as essential medical services. Some plans limit the number of visits, so confirm ahead of time.
Intensive Treatment Levels
For those needing more support, levels like intensive outpatient programs (IOP), partial hospitalization (PHP), or residential/inpatient care may be partially covered. However, approval often requires documentation of medical necessity.
Navigating Authorizations & Pre-Certifications
Insurers often require pre-authorization before approving:
- Intensive treatment levels (IOP/PHP)
- Coverage for treatment billed by out-of-network providers
- Extended stays or multiple hours of therapy per week
Early engagement with your provider and insurer—as well as detailed documentation of symptoms—can make the process smoother. Ask your treatment team to help with letters of medical necessity.
Steps to Take Right Now
Call Your Insurance Company
- Ask what mental health and eating disorder services are covered.
- Check if your deductible’s been met.
- Find out if you need referrals or pre-authorizations.
Check in with Remedy
- We can help you verify your benefits and guide you through prior authorization.
- We’ll prepare any letters of medical necessity and documentation.
Consider All Levels of Care
- From outpatient therapy and nutrition counseling to IOP, PHP, or residential treatment—Remedy works alongside you through whatever level of care you need.
Your Rights Under Law
Under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA), most insurance plans must provide mental health coverage on par with medical/surgical coverage. That means insurers can’t unfairly restrict treatment for eating disorders. If you encounter a denial, your plan must provide a transparent explanation and a process to appeal.
You’re Not Alone—and You Deserve Care
Insurance confusion shouldn’t stop you from getting help. At Remedy Therapy for Eating Disorders, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way—from treatment to billing. We believe that financial concerns shouldn’t be a barrier to healing.
Ready to explore your options or verify your coverage?
Reach out to us at remedytherapycenterforeatingdisorders.com to start your journey toward recovery—with clarity and confidence.