Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands

Entering treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) is not as simple as walking through the front door of a treatment facility. There are several aspects to consider before treatment can begin.

One of the most common deterrents that keep individuals from seeking treatment is the up-front cost of treatment itself. Many people may wonder if or how they could possibly pay for treatment. This can be especially concerning when an individual recognizes their need for residential treatment, which is one of the most costly treatment options.

It can be helpful to understand that rarely do people pay for treatment out-of-pocket. Rather, most people use insurance to cover or lessen the costs of their care. Insurance can do wonders for lowering out-of-pocket costs and covering important services that may be needed to secure lasting recovery.

Even if you have a limited understanding of how insurance works in terms of treatment costs or what your healthcare insurance benefits are, there is no need to worry. Often, a staff member at your potential treatment facility can help you find answers to these questions. For now, in this article, you will find some important information to help you understand how to pay for addiction treatment.

Every addiction treatment program differs in cost.

If you have never received treatment for SUD or a mental health disorder, you may have no idea how to begin fathoming overall treatment costs. Additionally, you may not be aware that there are several different treatment program types which all vary in cost. Here is a brief overview of the five levels of care (different treatment types) associated with the continuum of care:

  • Level 0.5: Early intervention services
  • Level I: Outpatient services
  • Level II: Intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization services
  • Level III: Residential/inpatient services
  • Level IV: Medically managed intensive inpatient services (detox)

Typically, the lower the level of care, the lower the cost. However, choosing treatment is not as simple as choosing the cheapest option. Often, individuals enter treatment at one level and move through lower levels as they work to secure lasting sobriety.

Choose the appropriate level of care to fit your needs.

When you choose to seek treatment, you should undergo a professional evaluation to determine what level of care will best fit your needs. If your primary care physician is unable to do this, they can refer you to a professional who can. During your evaluation, the professional will consider factors such as:

  • Your severity of symptoms, including withdrawal symptoms
  • The frequency with which you used alcohol and other drugs
  • How much alcohol or drugs you regularly used
  • The presence of any co-occurring mental health disorders
  • If you have a history of relapse

From there, your evaluation will be a determining factor in what treatment type will be the most effective in facilitating long-term sobriety. Often, individuals will need to begin their treatment journey in level IV, with medically-managed detox. Following this, they will be admitted into a residential or intensive outpatient treatment program to kickstart their long-term recovery.

Health insurance can help cover treatment costs.

There is no question that addiction treatment can be expensive. Fortunately, many facilities accept a variety of insurance plans to help cover the costs of treatment.

To fully understand your insurance coverage and benefits, speak with your healthcare provider. Many treatment facilities will do this for you or give you tips if you are unsure of what to ask. Additionally, rehab centers can determine if your insurance is within their provider network and what services are covered under your plan. Luckily, most insurances cover at least a portion of treatment, if not the treatment stint in its entirety.

However, even when you are using insurance, you will likely incur out-of-pocket costs. These are determined by your insurance provider and may include:

  • Co-pays: A set amount that you have to pay when you receive a healthcare service
  • Deductibles: The amount you have to pay before your health insurance kicks in
  • Additional out-of-pocket costs: Other costs that may not be covered by healthcare insurance, such as some treatment modalities or holistic interventions

If you do not have private healthcare insurance, do not be alarmed. Many treatment facilities accept federal and state-sponsored healthcare insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Programs and grants are available for those without healthcare insurance.

If you do not have healthcare insurance or your chosen facility does not accept your insurance, there are other ways to can pay for treatment. First, there are local and state-funded treatment facilities that are funded by tax dollars. While these are helpful, note that these options typically have strict regulations and eligibility requirements.

Additionally, here are some options you may want to consider:

  • Financing
  • Grants and scholarships
  • Subsidized coverage
  • Sliding scale
  • Fundraising
  • Help from friends and family

Above all, do not let the cost of treatment deter you from receiving the help that you need. Leaving substance use problems unresolved can lead to worsening health problems. These can and will eventually interfere with your ability to function in daily life. You are deserving of treatment and recovery, and money should not be what prohibits you from receiving them.

Pinelands Recovery Center of Medford is a premier drug and alcohol treatment center that understands how daunting it can be to consider the cost of treatment. Fortunately, we accept a variety of different insurances that will help cover the costs. To learn more about our facility and programs or for help confirming your insurance, call Pinelands today at (877) 557-5372.