What is Medical Necessity?

Medical necessity is a term that is based on the medical model of treatment but is also applied to mental health treatment. Sometimes that can be confusing for those of us who are counselors, therapists, social workers and psychologists!

In this video I explain:

• The three main components of medical necessity

• Why insurance companies use medical necessity for mental health

• Where you want to highlight medical necessity in your documentation

Let us know what you think in the comments below:

Are there other strategies you use to talk with insurance companies about medical necessity and psychotherapy?

Does this seem to cover what is needed for your progress notes and insurance?