Section 500.3425 of the Michigan Insurance Code requires each insurer offering health insurance policies to provide coverage for intermediate and outpatient care for substance abuse in all contracts for group and individual hospital, medical, surgical expense-incurred health insurance policies other than limited classification policies. The coverage shall provide a minimum amount, adjusted annually by March 31 each year, from the original minimum of $1,500, in accordance with the annual average percentage increase or decrease in the United States consumer price index for the 12-month period ending the preceding December 31.

The new minimum substance abuse benefit level effective

April 1, 2009 through March 31, 2010 is $3,919. 

The minimum benefit levels for recent years are as follows:

April 1, 2008 through March 31, 2009 ---- $3,774

April 1, 2007 through March 31, 2008 ---- $3,671
April 1, 2006 through March 31, 2007 ---- $3,557
April 1, 2005 through March 31, 2006 ---- $3,440
April 1, 2004 through March 31, 2005 ---- $3,350
April 1, 2003 through March 31, 2004 ---- $3,275
April 1, 2002 through March 31, 2003 ---- $3,224
April 1, 2001 through March 31, 2002 ---- $3,135

If you have questions about this policy benefit or its minimum amount, please contact the Policy Division toll free at (877) 999-6442.