PTSD Funding for Law Enforcement – $375,000
The State of South Carolina provides funding to help sworn law enforcement officers with stress related incident based behavioral health issues. The State Law Enforcement Division receives $375,000 annually to fund the operation of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Assistance Program. SCLEAP offers support to officers by providing timely response to critical incidents as well as prevention and training opportunities, including seminars, in an effort to shield officers from the effects of post traumatic stress disorder. The program also includes an insurance policy that covers out-of-pocket expenses up to $15,000 for those receiving mental health treatment.
SLED Website provides the below information regarding policy language and claim process:
MENTAL STRESS MANAGEMENT BENEFIT
If an Insured Person suffers psychiatric or mental stress illness as a direct result of either being actively engaged in a single emergency incident or repeated active engagement in emergency incidents, a Mental Stress Management Benefit, in accordance with Section IV of this Policy, subject to the Maximum Benefit Amount shown on the Policy Schedule of Benefits $15,000 is available. The Insured Person must be receiving care by a Physician properly licensed to provide such care and the care must be appropriate for the condition causing the psychiatric or mental stress.
Policies are underwritten by AXIS Insurance Company. See the actual policy language or your Provident Agency representative for specific provisions and details of availability. Coverage is subject to exclusions and limitations, and may not be available in all US states and jurisdictions. Product availability and plan design features, including eligibility requirements, descriptions of benefits, exclusions or limitations may vary depending on local country or US state laws. These policies are administered by Provident Agency, Inc. and in California, Provident of Pennsylvania Insurance Agency of Pittsburg, PA.
This insurance provides limited benefits, which are insurance products with reduced benefits, intended to supplement comprehensive health insurance plans. This insurance is not an alternative to comprehensive coverage. It does not provide major medical or comprehensive medical coverage and is not designed to replace major medical insurance. Further, this insurance is not minimum essential benefits as set forth under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
The First Responder Assistance Program is not insurance and is provided through Provident Agency, Inc. by Bensinger, DuPont & Associates, Morneau Shepell.
CLAIM PROCESS
Once an Insured Person has a standing appointment with a licensed provider please contact Benefits Director Zorrina Harmon via email: zorrina@scfirefighters.org or mailing address: PO Box 211725, Columbia SC 29221.
A claim form (First Notice of Claim) must be completed by the Insured Person. A licensed provider may complete the form on behalf of the Insured or contact Zorrina Harmon for clarification on payment methods and options. If any persons have questions or concerns, please call 803-807-1099.
Critical Incident Assistance Fund Flyer in PDF
Critical Incident Assistance Fund FAQ in PDF
View video presentations about the new insurance benefits for an overview and interviews with officers.
