What Is a Superbill?
A superbill is an itemized receipt, often used for out of network insurance claims, for a session that contains everything your insurer needs to consider reimbursing you: dates of service, the service codes, the diagnosis code, the providers license and NPI numbers, and what you paid.
Superbills Are Common
Unfortunately 1/3 of patients in a recent survey suggested that they had a hard time finding a mental health provider that would take their insurance, either in network or out. Because of this it is common for patients to need to see out of network providers, with that same survey suggesting that 1 in 4 people that receive mental health therapy used out of network coverage.
Typical Process
If you see me as an out of network provider you pay me directly, then submit the superbill to your insurance company under your out of network benefits. Most insurers let you upload it through their member portal or app. Reimbursement varies a lot. Some plans pay a percentage of what they consider a reasonable rate once your out of network deductible is met, others pay nothing.
Ask your insurance for specifics
Call your insurer first and ask what your out of network outpatient mental health benefit is and whether the deductible has been met. One thing to be aware of: a superbill requires a diagnosis, because insurers reimburse for treatment of a condition. I’ll talk that through with you rather than adding it quietly.
