Does MHS Cover ABA Therapy?

Many parents of children with ASD wonder if their health insurance, specifically their Mental Health Services (MHS) coverage, will cover the cost of ABA therapy. In this article, we will explore what MHS is, what ABA therapy is, and whether or not MHS covers ABA therapy.

Mental Health Services (MHS) is a type of health insurance that provides coverage for mental health treatment. It is often offered by employers as part of their benefits package and can be purchased by individuals on their own.

MHS typically covers a range of mental health services, including therapy, medication management, and hospitalization.

ABA therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors and reducing negative ones. It is a highly structured, intensive therapy that typically involves one-on-one sessions with a trained therapist.

ABA therapy has been shown to be effective in improving communication skills, social interaction, and reducing problem behaviors in individuals with ASD.

Does MHS cover ABA therapy?

Yes, MHS usually covers most costs related to ABA therapy. While MHS is required by law to provide coverage for mental health treatment, including ABA therapy, the specifics of that coverage vary by plan and by state.

Some MHS plans may cover ABA therapy, but may have limits on the number of sessions or the age of the child. Other plans may require pre-authorization or may only cover ABA therapy if it is deemed medically necessary.

If you are considering ABA therapy for your child, it is important to contact your MHS provider to find out what specific coverage is available to you. You may need to provide documentation from your child's doctor or therapist to demonstrate that ABA therapy is medically necessary.

It is also a good idea to research the laws in your state regarding MHS coverage for ABA therapy, as some states have mandates that require MHS plans to cover ABA therapy.

If your MHS plan does not cover ABA therapy, there are other options available to you. Some states offer Medicaid waivers that provide coverage for ABA therapy to eligible children. Additionally, some employers offer supplemental insurance plans that provide coverage for ABA therapy.

In conclusion, the question of whether or not MHS covers ABA therapy is a complex one. While MHS is required to provide coverage for mental health treatment, the specifics of that coverage vary by plan and by state. If you are considering ABA therapy for your child, it is important to contact your MHS provider to find out what specific coverage is available to you.

If your plan does not cover ABA therapy, there are other options available, such as Medicaid waivers or supplemental insurance plans. With the right information and resources, you can find the best treatment options for your child with ASD.