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Why do many insurance companies lack coverage for Music Therapy although the practice has been proven effective for multiple cases in various situations?
I am Laila , a Boston resident and graduating senior at Lexington High School through the METCO integration program. I have recently been accepted to Howard University for the Music Therapy program.
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Chris’s Answer
Hi Lalia, that's a great question. Congratulations on getting into Howard; it's a fantastic school with an excellent reputation.
The reason might be that there's not enough clinical research yet to understand the cost versus benefits. Insurance companies are businesses that need to make a profit for their shareholders. They want to cover benefits that save them money. For example, they cover statins to help reduce the risk of heart attacks because the cost of the pills over time is less than treating a heart attack.
You could get involved in music therapy research to show how effective it is. This could help convince insurance companies to cover it. Don't wait for graduate school—get involved in research through work-study or volunteer in Howard's music therapy programs.
Ask the Music Therapy Department who is doing research and if they need help. Let them know how excited and eager you are to join.
Stay curious about everything.
Best of luck to you!
Chris
The reason might be that there's not enough clinical research yet to understand the cost versus benefits. Insurance companies are businesses that need to make a profit for their shareholders. They want to cover benefits that save them money. For example, they cover statins to help reduce the risk of heart attacks because the cost of the pills over time is less than treating a heart attack.
You could get involved in music therapy research to show how effective it is. This could help convince insurance companies to cover it. Don't wait for graduate school—get involved in research through work-study or volunteer in Howard's music therapy programs.
Ask the Music Therapy Department who is doing research and if they need help. Let them know how excited and eager you are to join.
Stay curious about everything.
Best of luck to you!
Chris