What are Medicare’s coverage options for mental health apps or virtual therapy platforms for seniors with depression or anxiety?

Question

Elayne Cotton · Accepted Answer

One's coverage will depend on whether they are on the Original Medicare (Parts A & B), or a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C). Both options will offer mental health coverage. However, the MA plans will include other options like the telehealth apps, group or single therapy sessions or other supplemental mental health services. These services can vary between plans.

Answered by Elayne Cotton on May 6, 2025

Agent Licensed in CO & TX

Answered by Elayne Cotton Medicare Insurance Agent

Michelle Simonds · Answer

Medicare Part B covers virtual visits with licensed mental health professionals, like therapists and psychiatrists, if they accept Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage plans may also offer mental health apps or virtual therapy platforms as extra benefits. Coverage can vary, so it's important to review your plan details. I am here to help you navigate your options.

Answered by Michelle Simonds on May 5, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA, FL & NY

Answered by Michelle Simonds Medicare Insurance Agent

Angie Templin · Answer

Original Medicare generally covers vitrual providers as long as they accept Medicare. Many Medicare Advantage plans have extensive virtual provider options for behavioral health, some as low as $0 copay.

Answered by Angie Templin on May 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX

Answered by Angie Templin Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

Original Medicare:
Telehealth is covered:
Medicare has expanded telehealth coverage for mental health, including services like virtual therapy, under certain conditions. 
Specific conditions:
Beneficiaries must have seen their mental health provider in person within the six months prior to their first telehealth appointment and at least yearly thereafter. 
Provider requirements:
The provider must be enrolled in Medicare and the service must be deemed medically necessary. 
Coverage for specific apps:
Medicare may not cover specific mental health apps outright, but it may cover services delivered through these apps if the services are provided by a Medicare-enrolled provider. 
Medicare Advantage Plans:
Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional benefits:
.
These plans can choose to cover mental health services, including telehealth, beyond what is covered by Original Medicare.
Plan-specific benefits:
.
Beneficiaries with Medicare Advantage plans should check with their specific plan to understand their telehealth coverage and what mental health apps or platforms are included.
Supplemental benefits:
.
Medicare Advantage plans may also offer supplemental benefits for mental health that are not covered by Original Medicare. 
Additional Considerations:
Provider-specific:
Even if a mental health app or platform is covered, the specific provider using it must be a Medicare-enrolled provider. 
Medically necessary:
The services provided must be deemed medically necessary by the provider to be covered. 
Depression screening:
Medicare covers one depression screening per year, which can be a helpful first step for individuals seeking mental health support. 
In summary, while Medicare generally covers mental health services, including telehealth, it's crucial to understand the specific coverage options available under Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, and to ensure that the services provided by a Medicare-enrolled provider are deemed medically necessary.

Sam Silva · Answer

Medicare does not generally cover mental health apps or virtual therapy platforms unless they are part of an approved treatment plan or offered by a licensed provider.

However, Medicare covers:
Mental health services like therapy sessions (individual or group) under Part B, including telehealth therapy with a licensed provider.
Depression screening under Part B, typically during annual wellness visits.

Mary Salmon · Answer

Telehealth for mental health is covered by Part B where beneficiaries pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. This includes virtual visits with licensed mental health professionals. Those on Medicare Advantage plans may have access to mental health apps but these extra benefits vary from plan to plan and by location.

Answered by Mary Salmon on May 6, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX & OK

Answered by Mary Salmon Medicare Insurance Agent

Karen Ansell · Answer

Mental Health for us seniors is very important. I just turned 65 and have been having virtual calls with a psychologist once a week which is covered by Medicare and my Medicare Advantage plan.

Lenora Crumbley · Answer

Medicare offers 190 days lifetime for mental health.  Medicare Advantage or Supplement plans in your coverage area would need to be checked for possible additional benefits.

What are Medicare’s coverage options for mental health apps or virtual therapy platforms for seniors with depression or anxiety?

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What are Medicare’s coverage options for mental health apps or virtual therapy platforms for seniors with depression or anxiety?

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Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

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Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

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A non-government resource website