We are calling on all US insurers to end all restrictions on medically necessary HIPAA-compliant teletherapy during the coronavirus update. 

With the novel coronavirus sure to hit every US state, patients are reporting exacerbation of their symptoms, including anxiety and depression. We anticipate that many communities will respond to a local outbreak by recommending against or banning face to face contact for at least anyone who is infected, but perhaps entire cities or regions. In this case, patients will need mental health services but will be unable to receive it face-to-face. With the unrestricted use of teletherapy, they will get that care. Without therapy, many patients will suffer unnecessarily during a period of time of great uncertainty. We urge you to allow behavioral health clinicians who are contracted with you to provide that care with no restrictions or rate reductions via HIPAA-compliant teletherapy.