Briana was usually a happy kid, but lately she had been struggling. Life as a pre-teen was getting very overwhelming. Trying to perform well in school during the pandemic seemed extra challenging right now, and the isolation she felt was taking a toll on her emotional health.
One day, when talking with her mom, she made some worrisome comments. Her mom thought she might be thinking about ending her own life.
Briana’s mom, Brenda, was in total shock. First, these were scary words to hear her daughter say. And second, Briana was autistic and would require exactly the right care to help her through the situation.
A bit unsure what to do and in need of guidance, Brenda remembered her family had health care benefits through Meritain Health®. She recalled there was a number on the back of her member ID card she could call, and decided this would be a good first step. Due to the pandemic, she wanted to know what options were available to her, just in case Briana’s situation escalated.
Brenda picked up the phone and dialed for assistance. She was connected to a client advocate manager—part of an entire team that helps members every day on their path to better health. The client advocate manager immediately grasped the seriousness of the situation. Knowing early intervention was key in suicide prevention, he acted right away.
The client advocate manager began researching to find neuropsychologists in the family’s provider network that could help Briana. Finding an in-network provider would also help the family save on the cost of Briana’s care.
Over the next few days, the client advocate manager continued to stay in touch with Brenda to see how things were going, and to make sure Briana was getting the care she needed. Brenda was so relieved to have caring, dedicated support to help her daughter. Briana was getting the critical care she needed to heal emotionally and improve her outlook on life. This peace of mind was beyond valuable.
Briana is now on the road to recovery and feeling more like her old, happy self. She is getting the treatment she needs to feel better. She and her mom are grateful to Meritain Health for their caring support at a very challenging time.
This story is based on an actual member experience. Names and information have been changed to protect the member’s privacy.
This material is for information only and is not an offer or invitation to contract. Health benefits and health insurance plans contain exclusions and limitations; see your plan documents for complete description of benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary and are subject to change.
