"Cigna Network News” First Quarter 2022 Report is out!
- Posted On:
Before the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released data showing that only 17 percent of U.S. adults were in optimal mental health. This alarming statistic revealed an enormous opportunity for the vast majority of our population to improve their mental health and well-being. Then COVID-19 upended life, irreversibly accelerating the need for mental health care, while decreasing the stigma associated with getting care. As a result, more people are seeking the help and treatment they need. We know obtaining care is likely to improve mental health and there is growing recognition it will also improve physical health. But, can we prove that the impact of behavioral health care on physical health is strong enough to reduce total medical costs? The answer is yes.
Analysis reveals direct correlation
In a first-of-its-kind analysis by Evernorth, Cigna's health services business, of approximately 275,000 customers, a significant correlation was found between behavioral health care and lower total medical costs. It showed that people diagnosed with a behavioral health condition (such as anxiety, depression, or substance use disorder) who received behavioral outpatient care had lower total health care costs of up to $1,377 per person in the first year compared to those who didn’t receive behavioral outpatient care. Furthermore, the savings impact was sustainable over time, with a two-year cost reduction of up to $3,109 per person.
Costs decreased because individuals utilized fewer medical services, including expensive emergency department visits and inpatient hospital stays. These savings more than offset the costs of behavioral outpatient care, and means that even the lowest level of treatment can make a significant impact by helping people feel better, mitigating health care costs, and driving improved system-wide affordability.
How medical providers can help
The findings are groundbreaking, and demonstrate there is much work to be done to help people throughout a lifelong mental health journey. Unfortunately, most people do not get the mental health treatment they need until they’re experiencing a crisis.
That’s why we encourage medical providers to conduct routine mental health screenings for common concerns, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder. This is a vital way for your patients to understand symptoms that could lead to mental health distress, and learn more about the important connection between physical and mental health
Resources for medical providers
Cigna offers resources to help support your discussions with patients about mental health, including where to refer them if specialized behavioral health care is needed. Visit Cigna.com/Connections
If you or anyone you love is struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Campbell County Health’s Behavioral Health Services at 307-688-5000 or at one of the options below.
Location: Campbell County Memorial Hospital, 501 S. Burma Ave., Fifth Floor, Gillette, Wyoming
Appointments Available: Monday-Thursday, 8 am-5 pm Friday, 8 am-Noon
Phone: 307-688-5000
Crisis Line: 307-688-5555 after hours, weekends, and holidays
Visiting Hours: Monday-Saturday: 7:30-8:30 pm; Sunday: 2-4 pm
Continuity of Care Manager: Derek A. Friedlan, BS, CCM, NACM, 307-688-5007
Operations Manager: Matthew Miller, MHA, 307-688-5025
Source: https://mydigimag.rrd.com/publication/?m=33093&i=733474&p=1&ver=html5
