Prior Auth Discrimination
Requiring pre-authorization for mental health/SUD treatment when equivalent physical treatments don't require it.
Visit Limits
Limiting therapy visits (e.g., 30/year) when there are no equivalent limits on physical health visits.
Step Therapy (Fail First)
Requiring patients to try cheaper treatments before more appropriate mental health care, when not required for physical conditions.
Reimbursement Disparities
Paying mental health providers at lower rates than physical health providers for equivalent services.
Network Inadequacy
Having far fewer in-network mental health providers than in-network physical health providers, forcing out-of-network use.
Different Deductibles/Cost-Sharing
Applying higher deductibles or copays to mental health services compared to medical/surgical services.