Is CF-MH-1 used for collisions before 2027?

No. It’s a Care-First form, for collisions on or after January 1, 2027. Earlier collisions follow the current system.

Can I start therapy before the plan is approved?

Your insurer funds approved care, so it’s best to wait for approval. If you need support right away, ask about other ways to pay in the meantime, like workplace benefits.

What if my request is denied?

Ask for the reasons in writing. The plan can be revised and resubmitted, and Care-First has a dispute process if you still disagree.

The CF-MH-1 form, explained: how mental health care gets approved

Q: Who can do the initial mental health assessment?

Alberta’s Care-First guide lists a physician, psychologist or registered clinical social worker, with your insurer’s approval first.

What CF-MH-1 is

CF-MH-1 is Alberta’s Care-First form for an initial mental health assessment and care and treatment request. For collisions on or after January 1, 2027, it’s how a practitioner documents a mental health injury and asks your insurer to approve a treatment plan.

Mental health isn’t part of the pre-approved 12-week Program of Care for physical injuries, so this form is the main path to approved psychological care.

Before the form: approval for the assessment

Alberta’s Care-First guide says the initial mental health assessment is done by a physician, psychologist or registered clinical social worker, and that your insurer must approve it before it happens. In practice, that means an early conversation with your insurer or case manager, so the assessment can be booked. Your family doctor is often a good place to start.

What’s on the form

You and your claim: your details, your insurer and your work situation
The clinical assessment: your symptoms and what the practitioner found, plus any questionnaire or test results
Safety and barriers: any risk concerns and the plan for them, and anything getting in the way of recovery
A diagnosis, where there is one
The treatment plan: what’s recommended, how often, and your goals, including returning to work where that applies
Your ability to work: whether you can do your usual duties, modified duties or not yet
The request: how many sessions are being asked for, and the expected end date

How your insurer decides

Your insurer looks at whether the plan follows evidence-based care, supports your recovery, is reasonable for the benefit expected and is the most cost-effective option. It must respond in writing within five business days. A denial must be in writing, and the practitioner can revise and resubmit the request. If the insurer doesn’t respond within five business days, the request is deemed approved.

During & after treatment

Your practitioner shares progress with your insurer along the way, and can ask to change the plan if your needs change. When treatment ends, the insurer may ask for a concluding report that sums up the care you received and how you’ve recovered.

How you can help it go smoothly

Keep your claim number and your insurer’s contact details handy
Be open about how symptoms affect your sleep, work, driving and daily life. Specifics help the plan fit you.
Think about what you want to get back to. Clear goals make a stronger plan.
Keep your case manager in the loop about appointments and changes

How Bethesda helps

We know the Care-First process and can walk you through it, from lining up your first assessment to therapy once your plan is approved. Start with a free 15-minute call, and we’ll talk about your situation and the next step with your insurer.

Sources

This article is general information, not medical, legal or insurance advice. For advice about your situation, talk to your health care provider, your insurer or a lawyer.