12/12/2024
Attached is a letter sent out to our clients today via the portal in response to changes in insurance reimbursements by CareOregon. We received notification of changes on 12/9 which went into effect on 12/1 and drastically impacted the services we are able to provide and that our clients will be able to receive by associate level therapists. This change has left DOZENS of clients scheduled for new intakes this month abandoned.
For clarification: Associate level therapists are THERAPISTS. Associates have earned a Masters Degree in either Mental Health Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, or Social Work. They are now completing THOUSANDS of hours working with clients providing THERAPY to their clients. The process takes YEARS to accrue enough hours for FULL licensure.
****
Dear Valued Client,
I am writing to express my sincerest gratitude for YOU.
Recent changes in insurance reimbursements have had a profound effect on our business. These changes have impacted us significantly in the following ways:
On 12/1/2024 CareOregon (OHP) issued a letter which we received on 12/9/2024 notifying us that: 1) Effective 12/1 Associate therapists can no longer accept any new clients. 2) Oregon Health Plan will no longer provide payment for provisionally licensed therapists or drug and alcohol counselors in private practice after 7/30/2025.
Live Well Oregon employs one fully licensed therapist (Pam), four provisionally licensed associate level therapists (Hala, August, Dixie, and Hala), and one drug and alcohol counselor (Angela).
These significant changes meant layoffs each of these AMAZING and TALENTED clinicians. OHP clients make up the majority of our caseloads, which means this change has been devastating for our office.
Given the significance of these directives I have had to make the difficult decision to close our physical office location. The last day for in-person services will be Friday, January 10th, 2025.
What this means for you:
Angela, August, Dixie and Hala will not be accepting any new OHP clients and will begin making immediate transition plans for current clients.
Private pay clients currently seen by Angela, August, Dixie and Hala may continue working with their provider virtually.
OHP clients currently seen by Pam may continue to see Pam, but will be transferred to virtual appointments. Private pay clients will begin transitioning to virtual appointments.
Our entire office is grieving these changes and trying to find some workable solution. Please reach out with questions and concerns.
Pam’s schedule is currently fully booked with current clients, but please connect with her at pam@pamthecounselor.com if you would like to be placed on the waitlist for future openings.