Ketamine infusion therapy is a relatively new and promising treatment for people suffering from difficult to treat mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, one of the biggest questions surrounding this treatment is whether it is covered by insurance.
In this blog article, we will explore the answer to this question in detail. We’ll look at what kinds of insurance typically cover ketamine infusions, the costs involved with treatment, and other considerations to keep in mind. Read on to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of using insurance for ketamine therapy.
What is ketamine infusion?
Ketamine infusion is a treatment for chronic pain and depression that uses the drug ketamine. Ketamine is a synthetic drug that has been used for medical purposes since the 1960s. It is most commonly used as an anesthetic in veterinary medicine. However, recent studies have shown that ketamine can be effective in treating chronic pain and depression in humans.
Ketamine infusion therapy involves giving the patient small doses of ketamine intravenously (through a vein). The infusion usually takes place over a period of several hours, and the patient typically remains awake during the procedure. Most people report feeling relaxed and pain-free during the infusion, and many say they experience significant improvements in their symptoms after just one or two infusions.
Ketamine infusion therapy is not currently covered by most insurance plans. However, some healthcare providers offer financing options to help make the treatment more affordable.
How does ketamine infusion work?
Ketamine is a medication that has been used for decades as an anesthetic. More recently, it has been shown to be an effective treatment for certain mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. When used as an infusion, ketamine is administered through an IV. The infusion can last for a period of 30-60 minutes, during which time the patient remains awake and alert.
During the infusion, patients may experience some side effects, such as dizziness, nausea, or temporary changes in vision. However, these side effects are usually well tolerated and disappear soon after the infusion is complete. Some patients may also feel a sense of detachment from their surroundings or have hallucinations during the infusion. Again, these effects are typically short-lived and do not pose any long-term risks.
The ketamine infusion works by quickly raising levels of the neurotransmitter glutamate in the brain. Glutamate is involved in many important brain functions, including learning and memory formation. By increasing glutamate levels, ketamine helps to “jump start” the brain and improve mood and cognition within a matter of hours. For some people with mental health conditions that have not responded to other treatments, ketamine infusions can provide significant relief from symptoms.
What are the benefits of ketamine infusion?
There are a number of potential benefits associated with ketamine infusion therapy. For example, this treatment modality has been shown to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. In addition, ketamine infusions can help to improve quality of life for patients suffering from these conditions. Additionally, ketamine may also have neuroprotective effects, meaning it could help to protect the brain from damage caused by conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or stroke.
Are there any risks associated with ketamine infusion?
There are a few risks associated with ketamine infusion that you should be aware of before having the procedure. These include:
1. Discomfort: Some people may experience discomfort during or after the ketamine infusion. This is usually mild and goes away quickly.
2. Dizziness: You may feel dizzy after the infusion, so it’s important to have someone with you who can drive you home.
3. Nausea: A small number of people may experience nausea after the infusion. If this happens, it usually goes away within a few hours.
4. Bladder problems: In rare cases, ketamine can cause urinary retention or incontinence. If you experience any of these symptoms, please let your doctor know right away.
How much does ketamine infusion cost?
The cost of ketamine infusion can vary depending on the facility, but is typically around $400-$600 per session. Some insurance companies will cover a portion of the cost, but it is important to check with your specific insurer to see what coverage they provide.
Is ketamine infusion covered by insurance?
One of the most common questions we get asked is whether or not ketamine infusion therapy is covered by insurance. The answer is that it depends on the individual’s insurance plan. Some insurance plans will cover ketamine infusions, while others will not.
If you are considering ketamine infusion therapy, we recommend that you check with your insurance provider to see if they will cover the cost of treatment. Many insurance providers will require a prior authorization before they will cover the cost of ketamine infusions.
If your insurance plan does not cover ketamine infusions, there are other options available to help you pay for treatment. Ketamine Infusion Centers offers financing options to make treatment more affordable. We also offer a discount for cash payments. For more information about our pricing and financing options, please contact us at info@ketamineinfusioncenters.com or 888-526-8638.
Conclusion
While ketamine infusions are becoming more popular for treating certain types of mental health issues, it’s important to know whether your insurance policy covers this type of treatment. It may be worth talking to your health care provider or insurance representative to get a better understanding of what is and isn’t covered under your plan. With the right information in hand, you can make an informed decision about whether or not ketamine infusion therapy is a viable option for you.
