Out-of-network provider use more likely in mental health than general health care among privately insured.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Previous research has shown relatively high use of out-of-network mental health providers, although direct comparisons with rates among general health providers are not available. We aimed to (1) estimate the proportion of privately insured adults using an out-of-network mental health provider in the past 12 months; (2) compare rates of out-of-network mental health provider use with out-of-network general medical use; (3) determine reasons for out-of-network mental health care use.

Methods

A nationally representative sample of privately insured US adults was surveyed using the internet in February 2011. Screener questions identified if the participant had used either a general medical physician or a mental health professional within the past 12 months. Respondents

SUBMITTER: Kyanko KA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4707657 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature