Eligible WellCare of Kentucky Medicaid members can now access this leading at-home, medication-free treatment for these debilitating anxiety disorders

Freespira, Inc., developer of the only FDA-cleared at-home treatment for panic disorder, anxiety attacks, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, today announced a new pilot program with WellCare of Kentucky, a leading Medicaid health plan. Eligible WellCare of Kentucky members will now have access to Freespira’s proven treatment, which helps patients stabilize their breathing patterns to reduce panic attacks and PTSD symptoms.

The addition of Freespira to the WellCare of Kentucky health plan exemplifies WellCare’s commitment to ensuring Kentucky residents have access to the most advanced and effective mental health treatments. Access to Freespira will help Kentuckians manage panic disorder and PTSD symptoms through an easy-to-use digital therapeutic, making treatment accessible even in remote and rural areas where healthcare access is limited. WellCare of Kentucky is the first health plan in the state to partner with a company specializing in at-home digital treatments for mental health conditions.

"The addition of Freespira’s innovative mental health treatment is an important addition to our plans," said Timothy Houchin, MD, Senior Medical Director at WellCare of Kentucky. "It will provide much-needed relief for our members and increase access to mental health treatment across the state."

Many adult and adolescent residents of Kentucky experience the life-restricting impact of panic attacks and PTSD. Unfortunately, the availability of treatment for these and other mental health conditions hasn’t met the growing demand. Numerous peer-reviewed studies indicate that Freespira’s treatment significantly reduces or eliminates symptoms in a majority of patients, while also decreasing the financial and logistical burden on the healthcare system.

“WellCare of Kentucky recognizes the pressing need for innovative treatment options for those struggling with panic attacks and PTSD symptoms, especially in underserved areas,” said Joseph Perekupka, CEO of Freespira. “We applaud WellCare of Kentucky for taking an innovative approach in adopting novel treatments like Freespira that meet the needs of their members who are struggling with debilitating anxiety disorders.”

About Freespira, Inc.

Freespira, Inc. is a leading innovator in mental health treatment and the developer of the leading FDA-cleared digital therapeutic for panic disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Over the past decade, Freespira has been dedicated to transforming the lives of those struggling with panic disorder and PTSD by offering personalized and accessible care through advanced technology. Recognized as one of the top 10 most innovative medical devices by Fast Company, Freespira's at-home treatment addresses the underlying physiological cause of panic attacks and PTSD symptoms, empowering patients to visualize and regulate their breathing patterns in 28 days. The company is committed to breaking down barriers to mental health treatment, such as lack of providers, long wait times for appointments, and the stigma associated with seeking help. For more information, visit freespira.com.

About WellCare Kentucky

WellCare of Kentucky provides government-sponsored managed care services to families, children, seniors, and individuals with complex needs primarily through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans across the state. WellCare is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation, a leading healthcare enterprise committed to helping people live healthier lives. For more information, please visit wellcare.com/kentucky.

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