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MHIA: A Partner in Accessing Mental Health Care
by Judith L. French, Director
May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a powerful reminder that mental wellness begins with access to the care we need. But for many, the first step toward getting that care is understanding how mental health insurance benefits work in a health plan.
That is where the Ohio Mental Health Insurance Assistance Office (MHIA), the state’s official mental health insurance resource, comes in. MHIA makes navigating mental health insurance easier, less stressful, and more empowering.
As part of the Ohio Department of Insurance, MHIA is a reliable resource for mental health insurance education and support. We assist individuals, families, behavioral health specialists and other healthcare professionals, employers, caregivers, and advocates in understanding and using insurance benefits for mental health treatment.
Whether someone has mental health insurance in a health plan through an employer, a government program, bought it directly including with the help of an agent, or are uninsured, MHIA can help determine what mental health services may be covered, costs, coverage limits, care, assist with claim denial complaints and appeals, and explain insurance options.
To get started, visit insurance.ohio.gov/getmhia. You will find wide-ranging, easy-to-follow informational materials and complaint and appeal guidance. You can also request a speaker and schedule a training event on the site.
Mental health care should never feel out of reach. The more we all know about mental health insurance, the better. MHIA is here to help.
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Storm Recovery Insurance Tips for Ohioans
The Ohio Department of Insurance is encouraging Ohioans to access its resources, including insurance insights and tips, for assistance navigating the recovery process following damaging spring and summer severe weather.
Damage from water, hail, lightning, wind, and tornadoes is generally covered by standard homeowners and renters insurance policies after certain deductibles are met. Insurance protection for flood damage is provided with a separate flood insurance policy purchased through an insurance agent.
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Ohio In-Demand Jobs Week May 5-9
The State of Ohio's eighth annual In-Demand Jobs Week is May 5-9. This special week is designed to promote Ohio’s most in-demand and fastest-growing industries. From internships to apprenticeships, and important and rewarding careers across all business sectors, including the insurance industry, there are plenty of opportunities in Ohio.
The Ohio insurance industry is one of the largest employers in the state and a mainstay of the economy with dynamic and well-paying opportunities across many career paths. Be sure to check out the Ohio top jobs list and job search tool.
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How to Avoid Contractor Fraud
Contractor Fraud Awareness Week is May 19-23 and to help Ohioans avoid falling victim to scams and ensure they are working with trustworthy professionals, the Ohio Department of Insurance provides these valuable tips. By being vigilant, homeowners can protect themselves from fraud and safeguard their hard-earned money.
While the majority of contractors are reputable and reliable, there are unfortunately some unscrupulous individuals who target homeowners who are eager to repair damage and restore their homes. These dishonest contractors often prey on those in a vulnerable state, offering quick fixes at inflated prices or even taking payment without ever completing the work.
Join the Ohio Department of Insurance and the National Insurance Crime Bureau to raise consumer awareness around the dangerous reality of contractor fraud.
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OSHIIP Holding "Welcome to Medicare" Educational Events
The Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) is holding "Welcome to Medicare" educational events in-person as well as monthly webinars. The next webinar is May 10.
OSHIIP's representatives provide an overview of Medicare, Part A and B benefits, Part D prescription drug coverage, Medicare supplement plans, Medicare Advantage plans, eligibility, enrollment, financial assistance, and important deadlines.
OSHIIP, nationally recognized for its exceptional service, helped Ohioans on Medicare save $54 million in 2024.
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New System Launched for Ohioans to Find Unclaimed Funds Faster
Ohioans will be connected with their unclaimed funds faster with a new system recently launched by the Ohio Department of Commerce.
Unclaimed funds are lost or forgotten money that businesses and banks report to Commerce after accounts become inactive, typically three to five years. The money comes from inactive bank accounts, credit balances and refunds, uncashed checks, stocks and bonds, last paychecks, and more. Commerce has $4.5 billion that belongs to individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations.
The system enhancements allow claimants to more easily search and claim funds, upload documents, check the status of a claim, and receive more frequent communications about the status of their claim and any documentation needed.
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Through the 988 Lifeline, you have access to free, quality, one-on-one assistance. The skilled, judgment-free counselors are there to provide compassionate support. You deserve to feel heard and cared about anytime, anywhere, 24/7/365.
Text 988 or CHAT WITH THE 988 LIFELINE
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