Anthem / Elevance Denied Your Mental Health Treatment?
According to federal data, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (Elevance Health) denies approximately 15.3% of claims. When patients appeal, about 54% are overturned. Your mental health treatment denial may have grounds for a successful appeal.Sources: KFF ACA Marketplace Transparency Data, HHS OIG Reports, state insurance department filings. Rates are aggregate averages — individual results vary by plan type, denial reason, and documentation.
Based on published government and industry research. Individual results vary based on denial type, insurer, and documentation.
Why Anthem / Elevance Denies Mental Health Treatment
Session limits or visit caps
Not medically necessary per reviewer assessment
Provider not in-network
Diagnosis not covered under plan
Anthem / Elevance's Common Denial Tactics
Referencing outdated clinical criteria
Bundling denials across multiple related claims
Claiming services are "not medically necessary" without specific reasoning
How to Win Your Mental Health Treatment Appeal
Cite MHPAEA — mental health must be covered at parity with medical/surgical
Document treatment necessity from psychiatrist or psychologist
Show that denial applies stricter criteria than comparable medical treatment
File with DOL if ERISA plan violates parity requirements
Laws That Protect You
Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA)
ACA Essential Health Benefits — Mental health is required
State mental health parity laws
Tips for Appealing to Anthem / Elevance
Demand the specific clinical policy bulletin used for the denial
Check if your state mandates coverage for the denied service
File an external review — Anthem has a 54% overturn rate on appeal
Ready to Review Your Mental Health Treatment Denial?
Upload your denial letter and get a clear analysis in minutes. We'll identify potential weaknesses in Anthem / Elevance's reasoning and outline your appeal options.
Analyze My Denial FreeAnalysis is always free. No credit card required.
This information is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or medical advice. Statistics cited are from publicly available sources including KFF, HHS OIG, and state insurance department data. Individual results may vary. Consult a qualified professional before taking action on your specific situation.