Media Contact:
Vincent Plymell
vincent.plymell@state.co.us
Division of Insurance can help Coloradans with insurance issues around accessing mental health care.
DENVER - Every year, May is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month. In support of this effort, the Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI), part of the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), is letting Coloradans know that the Division is a resource to help with their insurance issues around mental health.
Accessing mental health care is often a challenge - from the shortage of health providers to the difficulties in navigating insurance companies’ networks of providers. And of course there is the hesitancy of many to even seek care, due to the stigma that some people may associate with mental health.
“Getting mental health care can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be that way. The Division of Insurance works to ensure people are not running into barriers with their health plans,” said Colorado Insurance Commissioner Michael Conway. “Mental health is just as important as physical health, so if you encounter problems with your health insurance company, the Division is here to help.”
Mental Health Parity and Insurance
The DOI has developed resources for Coloradans who have questions about how their insurance works with behavioral and mental health services, particularly around the issue of Mental Health Parity. Federal and Colorado law requires that health insurance companies cover services for mental and behavioral health conditions the same way they cover other medical conditions, like diabetes or heart disease - this is called “parity.” Parity is about equal and fair treatment for people who need mental and behavioral health care.
Visit our website on Mental / Behavioral Health and Insurance to learn more.
Contact the Colorado Division of Insurance Consumer Services Team with any questions or problems you have with your health insurance as you or your family members access mental health care, including questions about: information from your health insurance company, lack of mental health providers, limiting of benefits or services, lack of communication and denied claims.
Colorado DOI Consumer Services Team: 303-894-7490 / DORA_Insurance@state.co.us / doi.colorado.gov (click on “file a complaint”)
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About the Division of Insurance:
The Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI), part of the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), regulates the insurance industry and assists consumers and other stakeholders with insurance issues. Visit doi.colorado.gov for more information or call 303-894-7499 / toll free 800-930-3745.
About DORA:
DORA is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the marketplace and is committed to promoting a fair and competitive business environment in Colorado. Consumer protection is our mission. Visit dora.colorado.gov for more information or call 303-894-7855 / toll free 800-886-7675.