Using Cigna Health Insurance for Addiction Treatment in Colorado

Cigna’s tiered plans (bronze, silver, and gold) categorize their health insurance offerings based on coverage levels and cost-sharing. Bronze plans typically have lower monthly premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs, making them suitable for those who expect lower healthcare needs. Silver plans strike a balance between premiums and out-of-pocket costs, appealing to individuals seeking moderate coverage. Gold plans have higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket expenses, making them preferable for those with frequent medical needs. These tiers enable individuals to choose the level of coverage that best aligns with their healthcare requirements and budget preferences.³

Yes, your Cigna plan can help pay for some or all of the cost of inpatient rehab. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), insurance providers are required to cover 10 essential health benefits, including mental health and substance use disorder (SUD) services.⁴

Inpatient treatment for SUD involves living at a rehab facility while you receive intensive care around the clock. Inpatient treatment typically includes a combination of counseling and therapy in a structured and supportive environment to help individuals work toward recovery.⁵

Keep in mind the extent of coverage can vary significantly based on factors such as your policy details and the type of treatment you need. Before seeking treatment, review your insurance policy or contact Cigna to understand the level of coverage available for inpatient treatment.

Yes, your Cigna health insurance can help pay for some or all of the cost of outpatient rehab.⁴

Outpatient treatment allows you to live at home while attending treatment for a few hours a week.⁵ Outpatient programs can vary in both duration and intensity. While some patients may benefit from a stand outpatient program, others may benefit from additional structure in an intensive outpatient program (IOP), or a partial hospitalization program (PHP).⁵

People with a substance use disorder (SUD) frequently have a co-occurring mental health disorder, such as anxiety or depression. Studies show that integrated care that addresses both conditions simultaneously can lead to improved treatment outcomes.⁶

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates coverage for mental health treatment services, allowing insurance providers like Cigna to provide full or partial coverage for the treatment of co-occurring disorders.⁴

Mental health treatment often includes a variety of therapies, including:^{7, 8}

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): EDMR is a psychotherapy technique used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma by processing distressing memories.
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): DBT is a talk-focused therapy that allows individuals to process emotions so they can move beyond substance use.
• Family therapy: Family therapy addresses how family impacts substance use and how improvements to family relationships can help.

Using your Cigna insurance for addiction treatment in Colorado or out of state is simple. Many individuals begin by receiving an assessment from their doctor or a mental health practitioner who can recommend an appropriate level of care. In contrast, other individuals may contact a rehab facility directly. Whichever option you can, you can verify your insurance in a few different ways, including:

1. Calling the number on the back of your insurance card and speaking with a representative to learn about
   the Cigna rehab provider network.
2. Contacting the specific rehab you’re interested in and inquiring if they accept Cigna.

If you don’t have health insurance, you can still get the substance use treatment you need. You’ll just need to learn more about paying without insurance.

For example, you might be able to find a state-funded rehab or a treatment center that offers free care. Some centers charge a sliding scale of fees depending on your financial situation. There are also treatment centers that offer scholarships or payment plan options, or you might be able to take out a loan to get the care you need.

1. Cigna. (2023). Plans and services.
2. Cigna. (2023). Cigna healthcare.
3. Cigna. (2022). Colorado health plans.
4. HealthCare.gov. (n.d.). What Marketplace health insurance plans cover.
5. Cigna. (2023). Treatment for substance use disorders.
6. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020, April). What are the treatments for comorbid substance use disorder and mental health conditions?
7. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019, January). Treatment approaches for drug addiction.
8. Palumbo R, Protokowicz J, Roberto A. What you need to know: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy as a path to recovery for patients with Substance Use Disorder.