I need help with my drug problem. But can I even afford to go to rehab?

If you have a history of substance abuse, the sentiment above probably sounds familiar. Granted, questions about pricing are some of the first considerations we make before purchasing any kind of product or service, so it makes sense that rehab would be no exception. But it’s particularly important regarding drug treatment because there are many, many people have ask themselves this very question before ultimately deciding (read: assuming) that it’s simply not feasible for them to seek treatment for their alcohol and drug problems.

Unfortunately, misconceptions about the cost of rehab are often what keep people from seeking the care they need. Then there are instances where assumptions regarding the high cost of rehab are used as an excuse to remain in a state of active addiction in spite of the mounting consequences of continued substance abuse. For these reasons, it’s important to know what rehab really costs, which, as you’ll soon see, is both pricey and extremely attainable at the same time.

Before we get into the subject of the cost of rehab, it’s important for you to know that the cost of addiction can vary significantly based on a number of different factors. However, the purpose of this discussion is to provide you with enough information to give you some idea of how much rehab costs and, more importantly, to educate you about how much of that cost you’re actually responsible for due to health insurance coverage.

In short, between financing options and recent changes in health insurance coverage, the true cost of rehab is surely going to be much less than you’d expect.

How Much Is Rehab for Alcohol and Drugs?

As you would expect, there is no universal cost for each part of rehab. It is estimated that the cost of a standard inpatient addiction treatment facility is between $14,000 and $27,000 for a 30-day program. While those figures may seem high at first glance, they include not only the facility, but the actual treatment, staff costs, and access to therapists and other professionals.

Outpatient services are far less expensive. For example, inpatient detox can cost $600-$1,000 per day, while outpatient detox generally ranges from $1,000 to $1,500 in total.

How much an addiction treatment program costs will vary based on:

Of course, if you seek help from a luxury rehab center with high-end amenities in an affluent area, the cost of rehab will be priced accordingly. On the other end of the spectrum, there are addiction rehab services offered by free health clinics and nonprofit organizations, but these facilities have limited resources and very limited availability.

Most reputable rehab centers that fall somewhere in the middle typically offer financing options that make the cost of rehab more manageable. For perspective, look at how much you pay each month for your phone, your cable bill, and your car. Doesn’t your health deserve a similar investment?

Does Health Insurance Cover Addiction Treatment?

Insurance companies have more options than ever for covering the cost of rehab. From a financial standpoint, they make more money when their customers are healthy. They don’t want to absorb the long-term cost of substance abuse any more than you do.

Most importantly, insurance companies recognize that addiction is a treatable condition. The right rehab and treatment program can prevent serious physical and psychological programs down the road. This realization has become clear not just through scientific research, but in legislation.

According to the Affordable Care and Patient Protection Act of 2010, all insurance providers must cover all basic aspects of drug and alcohol addiction treatment and recovery. Private insurance, military insurance, state health insurance programs, Medicare, and Medicaid typically cover a portion of addiction treatment.

Health insurance providers must cover all basic aspects of drug and alcohol addiction treatment and recovery.

In fact, did you know Medicare and Medicaid may cover all or most of addiction treatment costs? There are eligibility requirements involving age, income, and other factors, and not all addiction centers accept Medicaid, but this is an excellent starting point for low-income families. If you’re eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare, you can apply for benefits from both programs.

Ask your insurance provider if they cover detox and medical detox, inpatient and residential rehab, outpatient rehab, medication, hospitalization, and specialty programs. Also, find out how much they cover and for how long. Don’t forget to include co-pays in your calculations. Sea Change Recovery can help you determine the scope of your health insurance coverage.

The Cost of Not Going to Rehab

As you consider the costs associated with addiction treatment, take a moment to think about the long-term costs of addiction, and not just in terms of dollars and cents. The most serious costs go beyond the money spent supporting a drug or alcohol habit and the money lost from losing your job. In other words, the price for drug rehab is far less than the price you pay for continuing to use drugs.

Can you put a price tag on your own physical and emotional health? Can you put a price tag on permanently damaged relationships with loved ones? Can you put a price on the safety of your family? Can you put a price tag on your professional reputation? Can you put a price tag on being able to enjoy a happy, fulfilling life?

When it comes to addiction, the cost of rehab is dwarfed by the cost of not taking steps to get sober.

Sea Change Can Help You Manage the Cost of Rehab

Sea Change Recovery works with most major insurance carriers, and we are in-network with Anthem Blue Cross. We’ll make sure you understand your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins and work with you to keep those costs as low as possible.

At our Santa Monica detox and rehab center, Sea Change wants you to focus on recovery, not cost. Although financial considerations are important, your health and sobriety are our top priority. Fortunately, health insurance typically covers most addiction treatment costs.

Contact us to schedule a consultation at Sea Change Recovery, and visit our website to learn how our caring admission coordinators can guide you through the insurance verification process at no charge.

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