UHC Addiction Treatment Coverage at the New York Center for Living

Yes, we are pleased to work with members of UHC; however, it is important to note that the New York Center for Living operates as an out-of-network provider.

Before you start your care with us, we also take the time to verify your insurance benefits. This way, we can help you understand your specific coverage, including the details of what is covered under your plan and provide you with an estimate of your expected out-of-pocket costs. Our goal is to ensure you have all the necessary information to make informed decisions about your treatment options.

Many UHC plans include coverage for substance use disorder treatment as part of their mental-health benefits, and that coverage can apply to out-of-network providers as well as in-network ones. The exact level of reimbursement depends on the specific plan, deductibles, coinsurance, and whether the plan requires pre-authorization. UHC maintains resources and a Substance Use Helpline for members navigating treatment coverage.

What this means for you:

• If your UHC plan has out-of-network benefits, you can submit our superbill and the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from UHC will show what portion, if any, is reimbursable.
• If your plan requires pre-authorization for intensive outpatient care, we’ll help you prepare the clinical documentation and treatment plan to support that request.
• Even if coverage is limited, many families find out-of-network reimbursement plus our sliding fee or payment options makes outpatient IOP care affordable — especially compared with residential options.

NYCFL’s admissions and case management teams are experienced at working with insurance — we’ll do the heavy lifting so you can focus on recovery.

Free Benefits Check

Call or email us and provide the basic insurance information (subscriber name, policy ID, and phone number on the card). We can often estimate coverage quickly and explain what to expect for deductibles, coinsurance, and whether pre-authorization is likely to be needed.

Verification and Authorization Assistance

If your UHC plan needs pre-authorization for IOP or outpatient services, we will create and submit the clinical paperwork that displays medical necessity and the proposed schedule of care. We’ll keep families informed throughout the process.

Superbill and Claims Support

After each visit or group session we provide a detailed invoice (superbill) you submit to UHC for reimbursement. We can explain step-by-step how to submit claims and what documents UHC typically requests.

Case Management and Financial Planning

For members with complex needs (dual diagnosis, co-occurring conditions, or professional scheduling constraints), our case managers coordinate with payors and connect clients to community resources to reduce financial or logistic barriers to care.

UHC, like many major insurers, typically provides benefits for behavioral health and substance use disorders. These benefits may include outpatient therapy, group therapy, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), medication management, and care coordination.

Before beginning treatment, it’s important to verify the following:

1. Whether your plan covers out-of-network behavioral health services.
2. Whether pre-authorization or a prior authorization number is required for IOP.
3. Your deductible and coinsurance for out-of-network providers, as these impact your upfront costs.
4. Whether your plan features special networks for mental health or substance use care, which may be listed separately.

If you’d like, I can help you go through these details during a call and confirm the specifics of your policy.

NYCFL is dedicated to providing comprehensive outpatient services designed to accommodate the diverse needs of adolescents, young adults, and working professionals. Our programs feature flexible scheduling options to fit into busy lives while placing a strong emphasis on family involvement. Here are some key aspects that make our services particularly beneficial for members of UHC:

Intensive Outpatient Care (IOP)

We offer a structured IOP program where adults can engage in up to 9 hours of therapeutic activities each week. For adolescents, we provide tailored care that includes up to 6 hours of group therapy, complemented by individual and family services. This level of care aligns well with UHC’s behavioral health benefits, making it accessible for those in need of support.

Integrated Treatment for Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

Our approach incorporates evidence-based therapies and, where clinically indicated, exposure therapy to address both substance use issues and mental health disorders concurrently. This integrated methodology ensures that our clients receive well-rounded care aimed at achieving sustainable recovery.

Family, Parent, and Partner Engagement

Recognizing the critical role of family in the recovery process, we prioritize active engagement with families in education and recovery planning. We provide resources and support that empower parents and partners to fully understand the therapeutic journey and equip them to foster long-term wellness for their loved ones.

Case Management and Alumni Support

Our dedicated case management team assists clients in coordinating their care, ensuring they access the right resources at the right time. Furthermore, we offer alumni programming and recovery activities that aim to create a vibrant community. This sense of belonging is vital for continued engagement in outpatient care and may also influence insurers when assessing the medical necessity for ongoing treatment.

NYCFL is committed to delivering effective and supportive outpatient services that facilitate recovery and enhance the well-being of individuals and their families.

Many UHC plans do cover adolescent outpatient services. Because teen schedules and school obligations are unique, our adolescent program is structured differently (up to 6 group hours plus individual and family support). We’ll verify what your plan will cover.

If out-of-network benefits are not available, we’ll discuss alternative options such as referrals to in-network programs, sliding fees, or short-term care while you pursue network authorization.

Reimbursement timing depends on UHC’s processing of out-of-network claims. We provide superbills promptly and can help with follow up if payments are delayed.