The Health Care System - Overcoming Barriers To Treatment: Depression

Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School

The health care system

Navigating the health care system isn't always easy. Some health insurance companies confine your choices to a narrow panel of doctors or therapists. Or there may be relatively few mental health professionals in your area. It may also be hard to advocate for yourself, especially when you're depressed. Perhaps a supportive family member can help you deal with your insurance plan or accompany you to an appointment.

Most private insurers, Medicare, and managed-care plans provide some coverage for mental health treatments. However, copayments may be higher than for other types of care. There may also be a limit on how many visits the company will cover. Calling your insurer is the best way to figure out your out-of-pocket cost.

If a psychiatrist or doctor is prescribing your medication and another person is conducting psychotherapy, it may be difficult to coordinate the different aspects of your care. Let both people know that it is important to you that they talk with each other.

It's also important that you do all you can to understand your treatment. Bringing a pad and paper to your appointment and taking notes may help you take in information that is sometimes confusing. For example, studies show that although doctors report telling patients about side effects, many patients don't remember hearing that information. Also, make sure you bring up any important and possibly time-consuming issues at the beginning of your appointment. Appointment time is often limited, so plan to make good use of the time, and make follow-up appointments when necessary.

Last updated:	January 23, 2007