What's Happening?
Evernorth, a subsidiary of Cigna, has significantly expanded its Behavioral Care Group over the past 18 months. Initially offering virtual services in six markets with a network of 1,000 providers, the group
now includes over 5,000 providers across all 50 states. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand for behavioral health therapy and support. Evernorth plans to further increase its network to more than 15,000 providers by next year. The group offers a hybrid model of care, providing both in-person and virtual appointments, allowing patients to choose the most suitable care setting. The services include therapy for individuals, couples, and families, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, trauma, and PTSD. Evernorth emphasizes data-driven care and measurement-informed outcomes, using evidence-based tools to track patient progress and ensure timely interventions.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Evernorth's Behavioral Care Group is significant in addressing the increasing demand for mental health services in the U.S. With mental health issues like anxiety and depression on the rise, the availability of a large network of providers can improve access to necessary care. The hybrid model of in-person and virtual services enhances convenience and flexibility for patients, potentially leading to better health outcomes. By focusing on data-driven care, Evernorth aims to provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment, which is crucial for effective mental health management. This expansion could set a precedent for other healthcare providers to enhance their mental health services, contributing to a broader improvement in public health infrastructure.
What's Next?
Evernorth plans to continue its expansion, aiming to grow its provider network to over 15,000 by next year. This growth will likely involve further integration of data-driven care practices and partnerships with physician practices for coordinated referrals and data exchange. As the network expands, Evernorth may also focus on refining its patient-to-provider matching capabilities to ensure patients receive care from providers with the appropriate clinical expertise. The ongoing commitment to evidence-based care and patient-centered service will guide Evernorth's future developments, potentially influencing the broader behavioral health industry.
