Pennsylvania Physicians Have Final Word on Chemical Dependency Treatment

October 20, 2003 Pennsylvania Physicians Have Final Word on Chemical Dependency Treatment The Pennsylvania State Insurance Department issued a policy notice on August 8, 2003, stating that referrals for inpatient and outpatient chemical dependency treatment from licensed physicians or psychologists are the final word in obtaining coverage for services. The insurance department notice clarifies interpretations of the state's Act 106 of 1989 and Act 68 of 1998 - mandating minimum benefits for alcohol and drug treatment. The mandated benefit provides seven days of detoxification services and 30 days of residential rehabilitation per year. The policy notice states, in part, "Under . . .