Unum offers customers specialized support for behavioral health claims 

Unum has created a specialized approach to behavioral health claims to provide focused attention to individuals and their employers during absence and return to work.

Mental health disorders are the leading cause of disability in the United States and will be the leading cause of lost productivity costs by 2030, according the World Health Organization.

"Particularly with the financial crisis, incidence of anxiety, depression and substance abuse are increasing," said Kristin Tugman, assistant vice president of Health and Productivity at Unum. "Our experience shows that individuals who are struggling with behavioral health issues benefit from support that is customized to provide an increased medical focus and early intervention techniques."

Unum's approach to supporting behavioral health claims offers a depth of resources that includes:

• Designated benefits specialists with smaller caseloads to provide individuals with personalized and collaborative support for the duration of their claim
• Support from dedicated vocational and clinical resources who understand behavioral health and have the knowledge and skills to help overcome barriers to recovery
• Expertise in absence management with the ability to develop an appropriate pathway for return to work
• Defined transition steps from short term disability to long term disability, if necessary
• Resources for employers to help build greater understanding of and support for behavioral health issues

Unum's experience shows that short term behavioral health claims have longer durations and tend to transition to long term disability at higher rates than other conditions.

"Our goal is to provide the best support and guidance we can to individuals who are dealing with behavioral health issues," Tugman said. "That is why it's critical for a collaborative approach with the attending physician, therapist and employer to facilitate a path to recovery and successful return-to-work."

The claims teams receive ongoing training that includes weekly case reviews, roundtables and access to specialized resources including an on-site phychologist and psychiatrist.

This focus on behavioral health claims is just the latest investment from Unum to ensure a gold-standard approach to claims management.

For more information about our extensive experience and expertise in disability, absence management and successful return-to-work strategies, please contact your Unum representative.