Aetna Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Therapy and Treatment Coverage

What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health concern that may occur after someone has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event or series of events. These events can include personal experiences of emotional. Physical, or life-threatening situations, such as natural disasters, war and combat, serious car accidents, rape and assaults, and intimate partner violence.  

To qualify for a PTSD diagnosis, one must have had a traumatic experience or an exposure to an event. Exposure to a traumatic event can include witnessing the event happening, direct experience, or learning that the event happened to a close family member or friend. Professionals who are repeatedly exposure to the details of traumatic events can also experience PTSD, including police officers, first responders, firefighters, and doctors. Someone living with PTSD may find that various areas of their life are affected, including their relationships, employment or school, ability to manage responsibilities and overall level of functioning. 

Is PTSD a Permanent Disability?

Though PTSD is not likely to be classified as a permanent disability, you may qualify for disability services if you’re actively experiencing symptoms. The severity of your symptoms, level of impairment, and other relevant criteria are considered before providing services. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has provided the following criteria for those receiving  disability benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder:

• Documentation showing that you:
  • Were exposed to actual, or threatened death, injury, or violence
  • Experience re-experiencing symptoms since the trauma occurred
  • Have avoidance symptoms
  • Presence of mood disturbances and behavior changes since the trauma 
  • An increase in arousal and reactivity since the trauma occurred

• Additionally, you have one or more of the impairments:
  • Understanding, remembering, or applying information
  • Interacting with others
  • Concentration
  • Ability to manage yourself

• You also have documentation supporting that your PTSD is persistent and has lasted a minimum of two years. In this scenario, you need to meet both of the following criteria:
  • You have engaged in mental health therapy, psychosocial supports, or a highly structured therapy that is typically used to reduce symptoms associated with PTSD
  • You are unable to adjust to changes in your environment, or to new expectations that would require modifying your established routine

What is the Health Insurance Provider Aetna?

Aetna is a prominent health insurance provider in the United States, which was founded in 1853. With over a century and a half of experience, Aetna offers a comprehensive range of products and services, including medical, dental, and behavioral health coverage. Aetna is committed to providing accessible and affordable healthcare, partnering with a large network of healthcare providers.

Aetna’s mission is to build a healthier world by helping individuals access healthcare in a simpler and easier-to-navigate way, which is also more effective. This is achieved with the use of innovative solutions, extensive provider networks, and an emphasis on preventive care and wellness programs. With millions of members nationwide, Aetna is dedicated to meeting the diverse healthcare needs of individuals and families.

Does Aetna Cover the Cost of PTSD Therapy and Counseling?

Yes!  Aetna covers the cost of PTSD therapy and counseling. This coverage aligns with the 2010 Affordable Care Act, which ensures that insurance providers offer coverage options for inpatient mental health, substance use disorder, and dual diagnosis programming. However, specific coverage benefits are based on the chosen health plan and provider.  

Aetna’s coverage for PTSD therapy and counseling typically includes both inpatient and outpatient treatment utilizing various treatment modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and other evidence-based treatments. Aetna is passionate about providing its members with comprehensive care, ensuring that they receive holistic and personalized treatment options that fit their unique needs. If you would like to learn more about your Aetna coverage for PTSD therapy and counseling, we encourage you to complete our online insurance verification form or dial (866)461-4474 today! 

What are Common Medications Covered By Aetna for PTSD Treatment?

Psychiatrists and other medical professionals tend to prescribe one of 4 medication options to those experiencing PTSD symptoms. These medications are effective in managing PTSD symptoms so that individuals are better able to participate in comprehensive treatment programs and navigate their day-to-day lives.  These medications include SSRIs and SNRIs. 

• Sertraline is a Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) 
  • Sertraline, or Zoloft. can be used to reduce anxiety, improve your mood, and decrease the presence of intrusive thoughts and flashbacks, by increasing the levels of serotonin in your brain.

• Paroxetine, also known as Paxil, is also an SSRI that can be used to decrease anxiety, flashbacks, and intrusive thoughts. 

• Fluoxetine, commonly known as Prozac, is an SSRI that is commonly used to reduce anxiety, lift your mood, and decrease your experiences with flashbacks and other intrusive thoughts.

• Serotonin- Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI)
  • Venlafaxine, or Effexor, changes the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, providing relief from anxiety, depression, and hyperarousal. 

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Programs Covered by Aetna

PTSD can come in varying intensities, with an assortment of symptoms and challenges. Comprehensive care often includes continued treatment during the different stages of your recovery, which Aetna generally provides coverage for.  Below are the details of different types within inpatient and outpatient treatment settings for PTSD which are commonly covered by Aetna.