UHC expands child, family coaching program

UnitedHealthcare (UHC) is expanding access to its child and family behavioral coaching program to help more people connect with early behavioral health support for children, teens and caregivers, an Aug. 18 news release stated. The program focuses on early intervention, providing education, coaching and tools and resources. The coaching program is intended to focus on issues that do not require immediate clinical care, such as mild to moderate anxiety, attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, bullying and sleep difficulties. For eligible members, the program includes up to four virtual coaching sessions per month with unlimited secure messaging. Rather than waiting until issues escalate, families can connect with nationally board‐certified health and wellness coaches — with appointments often available within 48 hours, UHC officials stated. This helps families have access to support that fits into their daily life. When additional care is needed, coaches can help make referrals to licensed clinicians.