Client Benefits Plan

The North Central Behavioral Health Board (NCBHB) oversees and pays for behavioral health services for local citizens based upon income and other hardship needs. The NCBHB’s Benefit Plan provides public funds to assist with payment of services. The benefits provided by NCBHB are available to the residents of Seneca, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky, and Wyandot Counties. NCBHB and its providers work together in many ways to ensure access and quality of behavioral health services.

What is the NCBHB GOSH Benefit Plan?

The NCBHB GOSH Benefit Plan is the behavioral health plan that provides public funds to assist with payment of services. NCBHB and local providers cooperate so that a wide range of treatment options are available to individuals and their families as they work towards recovery. These may include but not limited to crisis evaluations, assessments, counseling, medication, case management, housing, job training, social support, and development of everyday living skills.

Where do the NCBHB GOSH Benefit Plan Funds come from?

The NCBHB Benefit Plan is funded by Federal and State tax dollars as well as local levy dollars.Funding comes from the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and levies from Seneca, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky, and Wyandot Counties.

What help does the NCBHB GOSH Benefit Plan offer?

Quality mental health and addiction services are offered to residents of Seneca, Huron, Ottawa,Sandusky, and Wyandot counties based on clinical need and income level. Many mental health and addiction problems can be treated. Personal, behavioral, and social problems may also be addressed through counseling, medications, support groups and education. Help is available for people of all ages, including children.

What about more serious mental health illnesses?

Serious mental illnesses, sometimes referred to as brain disorders, are conditions such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. These psychiatric conditions may range from mild to severe and are treated by qualified providers. Your opportunity for success is increased when you cooperate with the treatment plan suggested by your provider.

How can I receive these services?

If you are not in an emergency, contact the local treatment provider and request an appointment. A professional staff person will ask you about your situation to make sure the services which the agency provides are appropriate for your needs. You may also be referred to another provider since the level of care you need may only be available from certain providers.

What if I can’t afford to pay for my services?

Help is provided for people of various income levels. Priority is given to those most in need.

How do I become part of the NCBHB GOSH Benefit Plan?

County residents of Seneca, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky, and Wyandot counties who request financial assistance will be given the opportunity to enroll in the NCBHB Benefit Plan. Financial assistance offered to you is based on information regarding your specific needs, your financial status, and the resources available from NCBHB.

What does enrollment in the NCBHB GOSH Benefit Plan involve?

When you enroll, you’ll be asked to sign a billing authorization statement. This form permits the provider to bill NCBHB, accessing public funds. During intake, you will be asked about your income, family size, whether you have medical insurance or whether you are covered by Medicaid or Medicare.

Will my private insurance cover my care?

Some providers accept private insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare.

Do I have to enroll in the NCBHB GOSH Benefit Plan?

You may choose not to enroll. In that case, you may not quality for public funds. Other arrangements will need to be made to cover your treatment cost and you may be billed.

How will I know I’m getting the best services?

Treatment providers are reviewed by NCBHB and are licensed through the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Some treatment providers may also be accredited through other professional bodies. Treatment staff must have specific degrees, certifications, and training.

Can my family and I help decide on my treatment?

You are encouraged to be involved in decisions regarding your treatment. This is a right granted to you by state law. When there is no conflict with confidentiality, families are encouraged to be involved with the treatment being received. In most cases, the more a family is part of the individual’s care, the more progress can be made.

What if I seek services outside of the NCBHB GOSH Benefit Plan?

Enrollees are encouraged to use their local treatment providers that are part of the NCBHB GOSH Benefit Plan. If services are sought outside of the NCBHB district (Seneca, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky, and Wyandot counties), and you are not Medicaid eligible, special arrangements need to be made and some benefits may not be available.

I’m concerned: Is my information kept confidential?

NCBHB and its treatment providers must comply with State and Federal laws regarding confidentiality. Your personal information, including your name, will be kept confidential. Only information for billing purposes will be stored in the computer system with your name.

What if I’m not satisfied with my care?

We aim to provide quality services, but you are encouraged to discuss with your provider on any concerns regarding treatment. If the problem persists, you can file a formal grievance. NCBHB and each provider have a plan for dealing with such complaints. To begin the process, ask to speak to the Client’s Rights Officer. Your rights are fully explained in the Client’s Rights Policy and Grievance Procedure. To obtain a copy, contact NCBHB at 419-448-0640.