In this article, we will cover how to continue care with an EAP patient whose benefits are about to expire or have already expired. We will also provide some best practices to support your patients throughout this process.
Warning of benefits ending
EAP benefits will always have a limit, even if that limit varies depending on the EAP coverage each patient has. When your EAP patient is approaching the end of the EAP sessions, we will let you know in a couple of ways: through email and in the provider portal.
In the provider portal, you will also be able to see if a patient has already added insurance to their account to take over once their EAP benefits have ended. If they haven't, it will show that the patient would be self-paying once their benefits end.
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Best Practices to Support EAP Patients
Supporting patients through the transition from short-term EAP care to ongoing therapy is an important opportunity to reinforce progress and maintain continuity of care. The following best practices can help you guide your patients smoothly through this process:
1. Plan Ahead for the End of EAP Coverage
Utilize your weekly EAP emails and portal notifications to stay informed about the number of sessions remaining for your EAP patients. Begin the conversation about the end of EAP coverage at least one to two sessions before the final authorized visit. Early discussions reduce anxiety, build trust, and help patients make informed decisions about their next steps.
2. Clarify Options and Next Steps
Collaborate with the patient to explore what continued care might look like. Their options may include:
- Continuing care with you through their insurance, if Rula accepts their plan.
- Transitioning to self-pay to continue working with you if insurance is not an option.
- Connecting with another Rula provider if a specialist or different modality would better meet their needs.
Encourage patients to reach out to Rula Support for details on their coverage and out-of-pocket costs. If you’re unsure about a client’s eligibility or next steps, Rula Support can also help.
Please note: EAP patients are granted a fixed number of EAP sessions, which can’t be extended (even for clinical or diagnostic reasons). It is important to outline the options listed above for all EAP clients who may need additional sessions, so they are informed.
3. Normalize the Transition
Many clients may not realize that EAP care is designed for short-term support. Reassure them that needing additional therapy is normal and that continued care can help solidify the progress they’ve made. Framing the transition as part of a natural therapeutic process helps reduce feelings of loss or uncertainty.
4. Center Care Around Measurable Progress
Because EAP treatment is time-limited, consider using structured, goal-oriented approaches—such as solution-focused interventions, coping skills training, or other brief therapy models. Continue using Measurement-Informed Care (MIC) tools to track outcomes and guide treatment planning, ensuring each session contributes to measurable progress.
5. Collaborate on a Transition Plan
If the patient will continue care, discuss what their ongoing treatment will look like—frequency of sessions, therapeutic goals, and whether any adjustments are needed as they shift into a new phase of care. If they’re discontinuing therapy, guide them in identifying community or self-help resources to maintain their well-being.
6. Document Transition Conversations
In your clinical documentation, note that you informed the patient of their EAP session limits, reviewed options for continued care, and provided resources or referrals. This ensures continuity and clarity for both you and Rula’s care coordination team.
7. Reach Out for Support When Needed
Rula’s Support and Care Coordination teams are here to assist you and your patients with EAP transitions. Whether confirming session counts, navigating insurance questions, or identifying next steps, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance!
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