Using Aetna for Anorexia Treatment

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Aetna is a leading health care provider in the United States and serves tens of millions of customers each year. The company provides nationwide health coverage and has an expansive network of more than 1 million physicians. Aetna offers a wide variety of health plans through employers and on an individual basis. Aetna also partners with a variety of treatment centers throughout the country to help those battling eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa. If you or a loved one suffers from anorexia and has Aetna health coverage, this guide will help you figure out which treatment path best suits your needs.

Anorexia is a serious disease that affects one in 200 women in America, according to the South Carolina Department of Health. Although women are more likely to suffer from this disorder, countless men are diagnosed with the disease as well. In fact, it is estimated that between 10 and 15 percent of individuals suffering from anorexia or bulimia are men.

Anorexia is a self-starvation disease. Those who are diagnosed generally eat very little if any food during the day and weigh around 15 percent less than the recommended body weight for their height and frame. If you or someone you love suffers from anorexia and needs immediate help, call us today at .

Using Aetna for Anorexia Treatment

As a managed health care organization, Aetna provides a wide range of services, including medical, behavioral health and pharmaceutical services as well as long-term care. Anorexia is a disease that requires mental and physical treatment in order for sufferers to get well, and Aetna gives its members access to medical professionals who offer these services.

Some of the physical symptoms of anorexia that require medical intervention include:

• Extreme weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Extreme weakness
• Sensitivity to cold
• Blotchy, pale skin
• Loss of muscle tone

Before diagnosis, a mental evaluation is generally conducted. During the evaluation, medical professionals often determine whether or not the patient displays the risk factors associated with this disease. Some of the risk factors include:

• Poor/distorted body image
• Low self-esteem
• Anxiety disorder
• An obsession with appearance
• Fear of gaining weight

Your primary care physician through Aetna can recognize these risk factors and may be able to treat some of them. Your doctor may also refer you to a mental health professional, a nutritionist and other professionals within the Aetna network who can help you. If you want to know the types of professionals available through Aetna, contact the company’s customer service department; the number should be listed on the back of your insurance card.

Does Aetna Cover Anorexia Nervosa Rehab Programs?

If you need ongoing treatment, you’ll be happy to know that Aetna covers short- and long-term rehabilitation treatment for those suffering from anorexia nervosa. Anorexia can be life-threatening if not treated, and the disease has many side effects as well. In extreme cases, patients suffering from anorexia need round-the-clock care, particularly because this disease can dramatically diminish the function of multiple internal organs. The exact type of care you are eligible for will depend on the details of your coverage, so it is important for you to speak with someone from Aetna’s network before developing a treatment plan. You might also have to undergo a medical review before being deemed eligible to receive rehabilitation treatment from a hospital or rehab facility using Aetna eating disorder treatment.

Inpatient Treatment Length Aetna Will Cover (28-30, 60, 90+ Day)

Aetna offers inpatient treatment to eligible anorexia patients, but you must be prepared to pay a deductible for stays of 30 days or longer. Depending on your coverage plan and the treatment facility you choose, your deductible for long-term rehab care can be as high as $3,000. Your overall out-of-pocket cost will be lower if you receive inpatient treatment at a hospital within Aetna’s network. If you choose an out-of-network private facility, Aetna will only cover treatments that are deemed medically necessary. The type of coverage plan you have will also determine the length of time you’ll be eligible to receive in-house care. Speak to an Aetna representative to find out the exact length of care you qualify for under your specific plan.

Aetna Coverage for Anorexia Dual Diagnosis

Many patients suffering from anorexia often develop a host of other conditions. Because this disease takes such a drastic toll on the body, long-term sufferers may develop a variety of physical ailments, including:

• Malnutrition
• Tooth decay
• Decrease in white blood cells
• Dehydration
• Thyroid problems
• Increased risk of infection

All of these ailments require medical intervention, and patients can receive treatment for these issues along with treatment for the eating disorder. Patients receiving treatment for anorexia also receive ongoing mental health counseling. At treatment facilities for anorexia patients, primary physicians and mental health practitioners work together to determine the type of care that’s best for patients.

You don’t have to suffer any longer. Give us a call today at to start the road to recovery.

Specialty Anorexia Treatments Using Aetna

The South Carolina Department of Mental Health notes that anorexia ranks third as the most common chronic illness suffered by adolescents in the United States. Because anorexia is so common, it will not be difficult for you to find a medical practitioner or a health care professional within Aetna’s network with experience in treating this disease.

Anorexia is a psychological disorder, so counseling is a very important part of the treatment process. Psychiatrists and counselors provide care to patients on a one-to-one basis and in group settings. Group settings are often recommended, because they allow patients to discuss the issues surrounding the disease in a nonjudgmental atmosphere. A mental health professional can also prescribe medications for depression or anxiety if necessary.

Nutritional counseling is also an important aspect of treatment, and a nutritionist can help you learn how to maintain a healthy weight without risking your health. Nutritionists can also teach patients about portion control, the benefits of certain foods and more.

Your primary care doctor will likely refer you to multiple specialty doctors and medical professionals throughout your treatment process. If you are receiving treatment at a rehabilitation facility, medical specialists will be available to speak with you and monitor your progress on a regular basis.

How to Cover What Insurance Doesn’t Pay For

If you need treatment right away but are worried about the financial burden, you have a few options to help you offset the initial costs. First, it is a good idea to inquire about payment plans, as most rehabilitation facilities offer some type of payment plan in order to assist low-income patients. You can also inquire about scholarships for low-income clients. If the treatment center that interests you has a scholarship program, you must be prepared to provide proof of income or financial statements.

You can also receive counseling through a local help center, community agency or government-funded facility. In fact, many state health departments offer a host of medical and mental health services to community residents for free. For more information about aetna eating disorder coverage, call us today.

Verify Insurance Coverage and Find the Best Treatment Centers

Contact Aetna directly or read through your policy thoroughly in order to verify your insurance coverage. If you contact Aetna’s customer service department, you’ll be able to find out which treatments your policy covers and which expenses you must pay out of pocket. Verifying your coverage will help you determine which treatment path is best for you. Depending on the severity of your condition, you might be able to receive the services you need on an outpatient basis, which can offset some costs.

Aetna has a wide variety of hospitals, treatment facilities and medical professionals within its network, so it will not be difficult for you to find the best treatment centers in your area. If you decide to get help today, remember that you are not alone. We’re available 24/7 to assist you, so call us at .