Do I have to pay for public mental health services?
Yes, if you, your minor child, or your husband or wife receive services. You may not have to pay if you have Medicaid.
How much will I have to pay?
It may depend on your income—as much as you can afford and still meet needed living expenses.
We first consider any insurance benefits you may have. Some insurances may pay the whole cost of service. Medicaid pays the whole cost for many mental health services.
You will never have to pay more than the cost of the services.
How is the amount determined?
There are three ways to determine the amount you must pay:
- By using an income chart, based on how much you pay on your state taxable income, for the following services: Income Chart
- Adult psychiatric hospital and crisis residential services of less than 61 days
- All adult outpatient services
- Any services provided to your minor child
- For all other services, your total financial circumstance is considered by
- Adding together all money you receive
- Adding together the value of some of your assets, such as property you own and money you have in the bank
- And then subtracting all necessary expenses such as personal debts, food, clothing, shelter, medical expenses, taxes, insurance, transportation, child support, and education.
- If you have Medicaid, it is likely you will not have to pay anything.
Is there a limit to what I must pay for my husband or wife or child?
Under certain conditions you are required to pay for 730 days of hospital or residential services after which only your husband or wife can be charged.
You will not have to pay for more than a combined total of 18 years for 2 or more of your minor children.
What you must do…
Provide us with all information we need to figure out how much you can afford to pay
Provide us with information about any health insurance that may cover services. Please bring your insurance card(s) with you
Pay the amount we determine you can afford, up to:
- Your co-insurance and/or deductible
- The cost of the services
- Or your ability to pay, whichever is lowest
How are you protected?
You can ask our office for a new determination if your finances change and you feel that you cannot make payments.
The law requires that we automatically set a new amount you must pay each year, if you or family members still receive services.
You can also ask for a review of your determination if you do not agree with the amount you are asked to pay
You can discuss your situation with our reimbursement specialist if you are having problems with your payments.
What if I still feel that I can't pay the amount you say I must pay?
If you are currently not a Medicaid Beneficiary and cannot afford services, and receive an Adverse Benefit Determination due to this, then you have the right to a local appeal. The request for a local appeal must be received by Newaygo County Mental Health in writting, within 30 days of receiving the Adverse Benefit Determination. Please contact Customer Service for more information.
Is the information I provide confidential?
Yes, all information will be held in strict confidence.
You may be asked to sign a form that will allow us to give medical information to your insurance company.
What if I still have questions about making payments or how my ability to pay was figured?
You can contact our reimbursement specialist at 231-689-7330 or 1-800-968-7330
9/7/18