If you ever wonder how to pay for rehab without insurance for your loved one, here are several options that may help with the cost of treatment.

• Private Self-Pay
• HealthCare Financing
• Medicaid
• Medicare
• State-Funded Programs
• Non-Profit Organizations
• Sliding scale fees

Self-Pay for Rehab

Self-Paying, or paying “out of pocket” for treatment is always an option, although not always the most affordable one depending on the treatment center you choose. Most rehab centers allow for people to make payments by cash, cashier’s checks, or credit cards. Many offer financing options through healthcare lending sources; however, as with all lending institutions, approvals and interest rates will be determined by income and credit scores.

State and Federal Funding for Rehab

Government Funded programs like Medicaid can provide health insurance to low-income individuals to help cover costs of substance abuse treatment. Also, many states offer state-funded treatment to individuals who cannot afford private health insurance.

Non-Profit and Low-Cost Rehab

Non-profit organizations can be another option that provides access to treatment at little or no cost.  In your search for drug and alcohol treatment you might find some treatment centers that offer sliding scale fees based on your income. All these options can help provide access to substance abuse treatment for those who do not currently carry private health insurance.

Understanding the Different Types of Treatment Programs

Before determining how to pay for rehab without insurance, you must understand the different programs available for your loved one. The kind of rehab treatment affects the cost, so it is necessary to explore all options to ensure your friend or family member gets the proper help they need. Depending on the level of care you or your loved one begins their treatment journey will most likely determine the cost.

Detoxification

During the initial medical evaluation with a treatment facility doctor, your assessment will determine the appropriate level of care to begin treatment. A detox program is designed to provide a safe environment for individuals to more comfortably withdraw from addictive substances until they are no longer physically dependent.

Inpatient Addiction Treatment

An inpatient addiction treatment program requires the patient to admit themselves willingly into a structured environment to work on the substance abuse disorder they are struggling with.

Your loved one would stay in a residential treatment center throughout their time in inpatient care, and they would receive both medical and emotional support around the clock. Inpatient treatment typically lasts between 30 and 90 days, but it can last longer depending on your friend or family member’s treatment.

Many inpatient treatment programs offer information on how to pay for rehab, including payment plans or information on enrolling in a healthcare plan. Enrolling in an insurance plan, such as Medicaid, is a viable option for individuals who cannot afford the high price costs associated with private policies.

Outpatient Addiction Treatment

Outpatient rehab is less restrictive than inpatient treatment. If your friend or family member receives outpatient treatment, they can receive two levels of care. They can receive either intensive outpatient treatment or supportive outpatient.

These care levels usually occur after your loved one has been through residential treatment or if they have been assessed by a behavioral health professional. Outpatient rehab can last anywhere from six weeks to six months depending on the program.

Suppose you need help understanding how to pay for drug rehab without insurance. In that case, many outpatient plans offer to finance and accept insurance plans, even if your loved one begins coverage after receiving treatment.

What is the Process of Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation?

The process of rehabilitation consists of the following steps:

• Preliminary assessment
• Admission and intake evaluation
• Individualized Treatment Planning
• Rehab and continuing improvement
• Aftercare & Discharge planning

Does Medicare Cover Rehab?

If you are worried about how to pay for drug rehab, Medicare Part A may cover some of the cost associated with drug treatment, but it will depend on specific circumstances. Generally, Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital services, which may include substance abuse treatment in a hospital setting only.  Medicare Part B may cover certain outpatient drug treatment services.  However, coverage can vary depending on the specific treatment and the provider delivering the services. If you do carry a Medicare plan it is best to call your benefits or customer service number and ask them to direct, you to Medicare providers available in your area for substance abuse treatment.

Does Medicaid Cover Rehab?

If you wonder how to pay for rehab without insurance, you can help your loved one get Medicaid. Medicaid covers alcohol and drug rehab centers, but you must find a treatment center that accepts Medicaid. Not all rehab centers accept Medicaid, but many do. There are also many different Medicaid providers.  Some treatment centers may be in-network with some of those providers but not all.  You will want to reach out to your Medicaid customer service department or call local treatment facilities in your area to see if they are in-network with your policy.

State-Funded Substance Abuse Programs

In most states, government funding is available to aid in paying for substance abuse treatment.  However, to be accepted, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria, and there may be a waitlist.  It’s important to note that you may not have the option to choose a specific treatment facility, as the funding source will notify you of which contracted facility has an available slot when one becomes available.  In Texas, government assistance for substance abuse is channeled through the county level.  You may make some calls to your local municipalities, and they will be able to direct you to the proper entity that provides assistance for the county in which you reside.

Non-Profit Organizations

There are many non-profit organizations that provide substance abuse treatment services at little or no cost.  A potential downside to some of these organizations is that they may not be licensed and regulated by the state in which they operate.  Which can lead to the lack of quality of care you or your loved one may receive. This isn’t always the case but understanding this concern allows you the ability to ask questions prior to enrollment.  You can search for these organizations online or contact your local health department for more information.

Help is Available if You’re Ready to Get Sober!

Do not give up hope because you or a loved one does not have private health insurance.  There are several options for substance abuse treatment without private insurance.  Search for and reach out to local treatment centers about self-pay rates, financing options or sliding scale fees.  Call your local municipalities for information regarding state-funded or non-profit organizations in your area.  Local area rehab facilities should also be able to provide referral sources.

Schedule a one-on-one today for information on treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction.