At Kona, our partnership with Optum/United Healthcare started in January 2020. Our commitment to providing exceptional mental health services starts with our collaboration with leading insurance providers. Doing so ensures we deliver the highest quality care to our clients.
About UnitedHealth Group
Optum and UnitedHealthcare are both part of UnitedHealth Group, but they serve different functions within the healthcare system.
UnitedHealthcare
- Function: Provides health insurance coverage to individuals, employers, and government programs.
- Coverage: Offers various health insurance plans (HMO, PPO, EPO, POS) with a broad network of providers.
- Clients: Serves millions of members across the U.S., including individuals, families, employers, and government programs.
Optum
- Function: Offers health services and technology solutions, including pharmacy care, behavioral health, and data analytics.
- Services: Provides PBM, health management, wellness programs, and consulting.
- Clients: Supports health plans, employers, government agencies, and healthcare providers.
Key Differences Between UnitedHealthcare and Optum
- Scope: UnitedHealthcare provides insurance; Optum offers services and technology.
- Client Base: UnitedHealthcare serves individuals/groups; Optum supports broader healthcare stakeholders.
- Role: UnitedHealthcare ensures access to care; Optum improves healthcare delivery and efficiency.
UnitedHealth Group has more than 1.8 million members in Arizona, more than 40,000 providers, and over 100 hospitals. UnitedHealth Group is a national insurance carrier and reports being the largest single health carrier in the nation.
What Services Does Optum Cover?
Typically, BlueCross BlueShield Arizona plans cover the following:
- Individual Therapy
- Couples/Marriage Counseling
- Family Therapy
- Telehealth
View a full list of counseling specialties for Optum Insurance.
Your Coverage with Kona Counseling
Fortunately, Kona Counseling can accept most Optum & United Healthcare plans. Our partnership ensures that you receive the highest quality mental health care without the added stress of worrying about coverage.
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, it is important to enter your insurance information as soon as possible into your Simple Practice client portal. This allows us to verify your coverage and make sure everything is in place before your first session.
Is my plan In-Network or Out-Of-Network?
Kona Counseling is in-network with most, if not all, UnitedHealth Group plans. Once we have your insurance information, our staff will reach out to your plan and request coverage, copay, and network status. If you like, you can also do this by calling the number on the back of your insurance card.
In-Network & Out-of-Network Benefits Explained (link)
Why Choose Kona Counseling?
- Personalized Care: We believe in a tailored approach to therapy, ensuring each session meets your unique needs and goals.
- Experienced Professionals: Our therapists are highly trained and experienced in various therapeutic modalities, ensuring you receive the best care.
- Confidential and Safe Environment: Your privacy and comfort are our top priorities. We provide a safe and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
- Convenient Access: With flexible scheduling options and telehealth services, accessing mental health care has never been easier.
Getting Started
If you are a UnitedHealth Group client, starting your journey with Kona Counseling is simple. Fill out the contact form or call us at: 1-866-847-0695, and our friendly staff will guide you through the process. We are here to help you with any questions you may have about your coverage, benefits, or therapy in general.
At Kona, we are dedicated to helping you achieve mental wellness and a better quality of life.
Thank you for choosing us as your partner in mental health care. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to mental wellness.
Need to Contact Optum or United Healthcare Directly?
United Healthcare's general number is 1-800-650-5826. Additional contact information can be found at their website.
Optum's general number is 1-877-901-5336. Customer support is also provided at their website.
What if I lose my coverage through my employer?
You have options to choose a plan through Cobra or through Healthcare.gov. Kona cannot accept Cobra plans, but we can accept most healthcare.gov plans. We recommend Exploring the plans available through each option to make the best choice for you.
How Can We Help?
Whether you’re curious about our therapy services, how to schedule an appointment, or what to expect during your first session, we’re here to assist you. If you have additional inquiries not covered here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Can I still receive a superbill for out-of-network insurance reimbursement?
Yes. If your insurance plan includes out-of-network benefits, we can provide you with a superbill to submit for potential reimbursement. Please keep in mind that if you submit your sessions to insurance for reimbursement, then traditional insurance requirements will apply.
Can I switch to insurance later if I decide to use it?
Yes, you can switch to using insurance at any time if your coverage includes mental health benefits. However, you will need to provide the necessary insurance information and complete verification before your next scheduled session. Also, sessions previously completed under cash pay cannot be submitted to insurance.
Can cash-pay clients access telehealth services?
Absolutely. Cash-pay clients have the same flexibility as insured clients to book telehealth sessions based on their preferences.
Does cash pay guarantee quicker access to therapy sessions?
While we strive to accommodate all clients as soon as possible, cash-pay clients often experience quicker scheduling since insurance verification is not required.