Welcome to Helios!

Helios has partnered with your medical team to offer behavioral health support through a team based model called Collaborative Care (CoCM). CoCM is an evidence-based model shown to improve behavioral health and help patients access additional support. Our model uses a “whole person” approach where mental health is treated as part of overall health. 

FAQs

What can I expect through this program?

We aim to provide brief behavioral health support through our team-based approach. This means your assigned provider(s) will also keep your medical provider up to date on your progress and Care Plan. Our team includes Bachelor’s Level Care Managers and Master’s Level Behavioral Health Clinicians. You might work with one or both. Our team works together to review cases and determine the right level of care.

What services do you provide?

Your provider(s) will work with you to identify the best level of care. We typically focus on brief behavioral health intervention such as skill building, lifestyle changes, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and psychoeducation. We will also consult with outside systems, such as schools and specialty medical providers, when useful and with your written consent. 

How long will I be in the program?

Most people are in our program for around 4-6 months, though it depends on your identified needs. Your provider will discuss this with you.

Is this the same as therapy?

While our Masters Level team members can provide brief, short term therapy through our CoCM program, if you need or want long-term therapy, we will help you access this in your local community or through a telehealth provider.

How often will I meet with my team?

You will meet with your assigned provider(s) at least once a month for 30 minutes or so. In the beginning you likely will meet more frequently. Your provider will also reach out throughout the month as needed - either through email or phone call. For example, if you are working on sleep hygiene, your Helios provider might schedule a follow up session with you in two weeks, but also call you in between appointments to ask how you’re doing and answer any questions you have about your Care Plan. Our model is designed to be flexible and adaptive. 

Why are you sending me screeners?

You will receive screeners, sent electronically through email and/or text message, typically once every 3 weeks. The screeners will only take a few minutes to complete and gives your team helpful information to review. We use this information to track your progress and make sure you’re getting the best care. If you have difficulty with technology or have language barriers, please let your provider know so they can offer support or review the questions verbally with you. We appreciate you taking the time to fill these out!

What about medication?

In most cases, your medical provider will continue to manage your prescriptions. The team consults regularly so your provider will know how you’re doing and what other services you receive through CoCM. Our team also meets weekly with a Psychiatrist who reviews cases and offers consultation to the team. In some cases, the team may recommend that you meet with a psychiatrist for additional support. If this is the case, we will work with you to access this care and will consult with this provider as needed.

Is this covered by my insurance?

Yes, CoCM is covered by insurance, including medicaid and medicare. CoCM is billed based on the number of minutes spent by your team, throughout the month. 

What about co-pays or deductibles?

Coverage will vary by plan. If a copayment is assigned, it will only be one co-payment for the entire month of services, regardless of how many times you met with your CoCM provider. If you have a high deductible plan, CoCM might be assigned to the deductible. For more information, contact your plan directly and ask how codes 99492, 99493 and 99494 are covered.

Want to learn more about Collaborative Care?

Visit AIMS Center Website: https://aims.uw.edu/collaborative-care/