MMHC Becomes In-Network Provider with Original Medicare for Therapy

Manhattan Mental Health Counseling (MMHC) has recently introduced a groundbreaking initiative by becoming an in-network provider with Original Medicare (Part B) across New York State. This allows MMHC therapists to directly bill Medicare for their services, eliminating the need for referrals or annual caps on therapy sessions. By ensuring cost transparency before the initial session, this program allows Medicare beneficiaries from Manhattan to Buffalo access to therapy without concerns about travel or therapist proximity.

For most Medicare recipients with a Medigap supplemental plan, therapy sessions often incur no out-of-pocket expenses. Beneficiaries with only Part B typically pay about $27 per session after meeting the deductible. MMHC simplifies the process by handling Medicare billing directly, sparing patients from upfront payments and cumbersome paperwork.

"This change is important for older adults who often require therapy but underutilize these services," explained Steven Buchwald, Managing Director at MMHC. "We have ensured that this process is as straightforward as possible for patients."

Medicare Part B covers medically necessary outpatient psychotherapy, including remote sessions. There is no limit on the number of sessions required as long as the need for therapy is documented. The coverage extends to various mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, through therapeutic methods like CBT and EMDR.

New York State offers favorable conditions for Medigap policies, allowing beneficiaries to enroll without restrictions on age, health, or pre-existing conditions. This enables them to significantly reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs for therapy sessions. MMHC therapists specialize in conditions prevalent among older adults, easing life transitions like retirement through telehealth sessions, with new patient appointments often available within five days.

MMHC guides patients in understanding Medigap options, which can reduce therapy costs even further. Although New Yorkers can enroll in Medigap throughout the year, continuous prior coverage may be required to bypass initial waiting periods for pre-existing conditions.

Since its inception in 2014, Manhattan Mental Health Counseling has become a notable telehealth practice, fostering transparent cost practices and accessible care across the state for over 5,000 New Yorkers. Interested individuals can verify their coverage and schedule appointments through MMHC's website. "Understanding Medigap options can mean the difference between affordable and free therapy for our patients," emphasized Nashuan Lee, Director of Credentialing at MMHC.