Rehab Insurance Coverage: What’s Required & What’s Not

When we finally admit we need rehab, it can be both a scary and happy experience. It's scary because we see the toll drugs or alcohol played on our life. We see the path of destruction our addiction left behind. We worry about the future and attending rehab.

But it can also be happy. We have decided that we no longer want to be a victim of our disease. We decided to get help and get started on the road to recovery.

For many, that road starts in rehab. That includes inpatient care or outpatient care. It's an important first step on the road to recovery and one where many learn the skills to stay sober. Some worry about the cost and the good news is you do not have to pay for it all yourself.

Health insurance can be used to help pay for rehab and addiction treatment help. Here are the basics on using health insurance for rehab.

Federal Law Requires It

Under the Affordable Care Act, health insurance providers are required to provide some type of coverage for many types of rehab. That includes most alcohol and substance addictions. So your health insurance, which many get through work, can be used to help cover the cost of rehab.

It doesn’t have to be expensive as you think!

Not Everything Is The Same

But not all providers and plans are created equal. Every provider, such as Blue Cross/Blue Shield or Aetna, offers different amounts of coverage and different services. There is no one size fits all and there are not requirements under the law to provide full coverage. That can make it hard to explain exactly what your health insurance will help cover.   

What Services Are Covered

Typically, health insurance providers will help cover the costs of the recovery process. That includes detox where the substances are removed from your body under the watchful eye of medical professionals. Rehab options such as inpatient care where patients live at the facility, or outpatient care where people live at home while attending therapy, are usually covered.

Health insurance will also cover telemedicine or follow-up visits so that you can stay on the road to recovery.

Check With Your Provider

If you want to start the road to recovery and use your health insurance for rehab, it Is best to check with your health insurance provider first. They can tell you exactly what is covered under your plan and for how much. That way, when it comes time to pay for rehab, you know the amount that will be your responsibility. Many insurance providers will also help patients find plans that are in their network and take their insurance plan. This can make rehab more affordable than many internet sites say.

Get Help Today

If you are ready to break your addiction to drugs or alcohol, reach out to our staff at Sunflower recovery today. Our staff can talk to you about rehab options and your substance use disorder. You can get started on the road to recovery and enjoy the benefits of a sober life today!

Rehab Insurance Coverage: What’s Required & What’s Not