Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota (Blue Cross) has made a groundbreaking announcement, becoming the first local non-profit health plan to offer access to peer support specialists as a covered benefit. Peer support specialists are individuals with personal experiences who provide support, encouragement, and connections to resources for those facing mental health challenges and in recovery. This new benefit, which aligns with the recently released National Model Standards for Peer Support Certification by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), will be available to members enrolled in fully-insured commercial plans starting in 2024.
Blue Cross recognizes the growing importance of addressing the nation’s mental health crisis and aims to set a new standard by extending this benefit to more Minnesotans. The coverage will be provided at no cost to members when coordinated by an in-network provider. It will be offered to individuals with employer-offered health insurance as well as those who purchase Individual and Family coverage on their own.
Blue Plus, the HMO arm of Blue Cross, has been providing a peer support specialist benefit since 2009 to members enrolled in health programs offered by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). Building on this experience, Blue Cross engaged in discussions with DHS to develop similar coverage for Blue Plus members enrolled in commercial Individual and Family plans, as well as Blue Cross members with coverage through fully insured employer-based plans.
Lauren Foster, principal program manager of behavioral health at Blue Cross, highlighted the significance of connecting individuals with the understanding and strength that comes from peers who have faced similar challenges. Peer support specialists, who utilize their own lived experiences and care navigation journeys, play a vital role in supporting others and have proven effectiveness in helping individuals in difficult circumstances. Blue Cross’ coverage will include Certified Family Peer Specialists, Certified Peer Specialists, and Peer Recovery Specialists.
The inclusion of the peer specialist support benefit in fully insured commercial health plans for 2024 is subject to regulatory review and approval by the Minnesota Department of Commerce (for Blue Cross products) and the Minnesota Department of Health (for Blue Plus products). Self-insured commercial groups will also have the option to add peer specialist support coverage to their health plan benefit design starting in 2024.
