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Why Financial Options For Rehab Matter

Several factors have contributed to the rising numbers of substance abuse. New cases of anxiety and depression that have been on the rise from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic reveal why substance abuse has increased. Increasing alcohol sales confirm the impact of addiction, and factors like poor mental health and increased substance abuse that stem from it provide insight into the impact of uncertainty. Unfortunately, some may be hesitating seeking out treatment because they are unaware of their financial options for rehab.

In recent past years, public spending for treatment has increased from $9 billion in 1986 to $24 billion in 2009, to a projected $42 billion in 2021. While the numbers of people with addiction increase, unfortunately, many are not getting the treatment needed for sobriety. Some are not aware of the many valuable funding options that can help them get the treatment they need. Factors like finances can be an obstacle which keep many stuck in the loop of addiction.

Rehab Funding Options: Medicaid And Medicare

Medicaid and Medicare are both effective and helpful financing options for rehab. Both offer insurance options like partial or full coverage to individuals who apply. Both can be combined and used to fund healthcare, include detox and alcohol treatment, or used separately. Medicaid is available to individuals 65 and older, children, pregnant women, and disabled people. Another factor is low-income brackets.

Medicaid can be combined with Medicare to offer individuals more funding for health and treatment needs. Patients needing funding from Medicaid or Medicare for rehab can expect the following:

  • Medical detox

  • Health screenings

  • Addiction medications for treatment or withdrawal

  • Drug and alcohol testing

  • Hospital follow-ups

  • Counseling

Medicare is for those 65 and under, and occurs in 4 parts funding mental health, drug rehab, and treatment. Depending on the part, it can cover inpatient hospitalization for 2 months, and part B covers 75% of medication treatment and mental health costs. Part C covers approved private insurance and part D includes coverage for withdrawal medications. The various parts of coverage include specific funding amounts that individuals interested in learning about can access by contacting 1-800-MEDICAID. For Medicare information, those interested can connect with local Medicaid offices.

Rehab Funding Options: The Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows patients to access funding via insurance. Patients are able to have reduced costs for treatment, and have more options to get the treatment needed for recovery. The Affordable Care Act functions to cover out of pocket expenses and is available in the following tiered plans:

  • Bronze (covering 60% of costs)

  • Silver (covering 70% of costs)

  • Gold (covering 80% of costs)

  • Platinum (covering 90% of costs)

  • Catastrophic (covering 60% of costs for those under 30 or facing unique health conditions)

Like Medicaid and Medicare, the ACA also covers alcohol treatment medications, counseling/therapy services, drug-related disorders, and health conditions.

Rehab Financial Options: Scholarships And Grants

Another financial option for rehab is scholarships and grants. Scholarships and grants allow individuals seeking recovery to attain treatment at low costs or for free as they reduce the upfront patient costs. In some cases, patients can attend rehab for free as some scholarships cover full costs of rehab. Scholarships are available in block grants, full, or partial scholarships. The Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant (SABG) program is available via SAMHSA as an option.

Similar to Medicaid and Medicare options, prospective patients who go through the rehab process must apply for scholarships. General block grants and the overall scholarship application process is straightforward. For those who qualify for such block grants, they provide primary prevention care; partial and full scholarships offer financial support. Qualifying for scholarships requires individuals who truly want to recover from substance abuse to have tried several other attempts to get financial assistance.

State-Funded And Government-Funded Rehab

Another route someone can take is to take advantage of state and government funding for rehab. State-funded rehab is available for both inpatient and outpatient rehab, and both offer pros and cons. Additionally, state-funded rehab is government-funded, providing care for patients needing addiction treatment at little to no costs.

Fortunately, some options are free to patients. Websites like SAMHSA and State Funded Rehab offer insights on how to get started and how to qualify. Lastly, individuals needing rehab can also connect with non-profit organizations to access funding by researching local organizations.

Ready To Get Help?

Getting rehab for addiction is a life-changing action that reflects courage and personal responsibility. Knowing several financial options are available to assist you or your loved one facing alcohol addiction can be the motivation needed for change.

If you or a loved one needs help with addiction and have questions about funding for rehab, contact a treatment provider today to discuss treatment and financing options.