The Avesta Blog
New to ketamine care? Read these first
Three guides that answer the questions most patients ask before their first visit.

Guides
What is Ketamine and How Does it Work?
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic used in surgery and pain management since the 1960s. At clinical doses it is an effective therapy for treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, anxiety and suicidality, and it can relieve chronic pain.

Guides
Is Ketamine Therapy Safe?
The article says ketamine IV infusions for mood disorders and chronic pain are very safe when given by highly trained, board-certified anesthesia providers, and notes the World Health Organization lists ketamine as an essential medicine. The ideal candidate has usually tried other treatments without success.

Pricing
How to Pay for Ketamine Therapy and Reduce Out-of-Pocket Costs
Most patients lower ketamine costs through insurance-based Spravato treatment or IV ketamine supported by reimbursement and other payment tools. Spravato often provides the lowest out-of-pocket cost for patients who qualify.
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Insurance
Does Aetna Cover Ketamine Therapy?
Yes, for Spravato. Avesta is in-network with Aetna for Spravato as of July 2026, and most members pay $0 for the medication plus a $0 to $250 office visit. IV ketamine remains off-label, so Aetna does not cover the medication itself.

Insurance
Does TRICARE Cover Ketamine Treatment? What Military Families in Hampton Roads Should Know
TRICARE covers Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray for specific depression diagnoses as of July 2026, but it does not cover IV ketamine for mental health. Eligible veterans may have a free route through VA Community Care.

Insurance
Do Worker’s Benefits cover Ketamine Therapy?
Yes, workers' comp benefits can cover ketamine therapy under certain conditions. Ketamine is a valuable medicine for pain relief and is far safer than opioids, but coverage depends on several factors, including your claim.

Insurance
Finding Maryland Ketamine Clinics That Accepts Insurance
Finding a Maryland ketamine clinic that accepts insurance takes research and persistence. Some clinics, including Avesta, have in-network and out-of-network relationships with major insurers, and Avesta offers a free intake and insurance estimate call.

Insurance
Finding Virginia Ketamine Clinics That Accepts Insurance
Insurance coverage for ketamine varies considerably by plan. In-network clinics offer the best prices, and out-of-network clinics can still help you with billing and reimbursement. Avesta offers a free intake call and insurance quote.

Insurance
Does Insurance Cover Ketamine Therapy in Maryland?
Yes, insurance covers ketamine therapy in Maryland more often than most patients expect. Maryland Medicaid, Aetna and Cigna cover Spravato, Cigna covers IV ketamine, and workers compensation covers ketamine for chronic pain.

Insurance
How to Get Ketamine Insurance Coverage in Virginia
Insurance does not usually cover ketamine therapy in most areas, including Northern Virginia. The article explains why and how the application process for requesting coverage varies by insurer, so contact your insurance company directly.
The Avesta blog shares general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to a qualified clinician about your own situation.
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