Across the country, many families are finding it increasingly difficult to access affordable mental health care for their children. Financial barriers, insurance limitations, and provider shortages continue to leave too many young people without the treatment they need. A recent report from the Health Policy Institute of Ohio, highlighted by the Ohio Capital Journal, illustrates these challenges, finding that many Ohio families face significant obstacles even when they have health insurance. The findings also underscore the need for healthcare solutions that make mental health services more affordable and accessible for families.
A Lack of Coverage is a Major Challenge
The report identifies insurance coverage as one of the biggest challenges. According to the study, “Many young Ohioans experience mental health challenges, and families often have difficulty navigating the mental healthcare and insurance systems. Accessing needed mental health treatment is important, especially for children, because mental health conditions often continue into adulthood.”
Nearly half of surveyed families whose children could not access mental health care said their insurance was not accepted by available providers. Others reported that out-of-pocket costs, deductibles, and copayments made treatment too expensive. These financial burdens can delay or prevent children from receiving counseling, therapy, or other behavioral health services when they need them most.
Provider shortages also continue to limit access across the state. Ohio has a significant lack of mental health professionals, with 75 of its 88 counties designated as mental health shortage areas. As a result, many families encounter long waitlists or must travel considerable distances to find a provider. In some communities, specialized pediatric mental health services are simply unavailable, further making care difficult to obtain.
Lower Reimbursement Rates Add to the Problem
Another contributing factor is the lower reimbursement rates paid to behavioral health providers compared with other medical specialists. According to the report, mental health clinicians in Ohio are reimbursed, on average, 18% less than medical or surgical providers. Lower payments can discourage providers from accepting insurance, leading some practices to require self-payment instead.
Comprehensive Mental Health Support for Members
At Solidarity HealthShare, we believe families should never have to delay or forgo mental health care because of financial barriers. That’s why we offer one of the most comprehensive mental health sharing programs available. Unlike many healthcare sharing ministries that place limits on mental health services, Solidarity shares into unlimited mental health therapy visits for a wide range of medical conditions.
Our mental health sharing also includes eligible treatment for drug and alcohol dependence, marriage and family counseling, eating disorders, medications, emergency hospitalization, telecounseling, and more. Because mental health is closely connected to overall well-being, we take a holistic approach that recognizes the importance of caring for the mind, body, and spirit. If you’re looking for an affordable, faith-based healthcare solution that prioritizes comprehensive mental health care for individuals and families, we invite you to learn more about the Solidarity community. To learn more, please contact our Member Care team today at 737-SHARING or check prices online.