Content Reviewed by Jennifer Wheeler, Clinical & Community Outreach for New Life

There are many deterrents that hold individuals back from seeking treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health disorders. One of the most common barriers is a person’s inability to accept a loss of control over substance use or mental health symptoms. Even when an individual is willing to accept that they have a problem that requires treatment, there are still a plethora of reasons why they may hold back from receiving treatment.

Another issue that keeps people from seeking or receiving treatment is financial concerns. Undoubtedly, our society revolves around money. The stress that a person may experience as they try and navigate costs for treatment can be incredibly intense. This is particularly true if financial stress is a perpetrator of their substance use. However, it is essential to understand that treatment costs need not be a deterrent for those who need help.

How much does addiction treatment cost?

This is a loaded question. In general, the cost of treatment varies significantly depending on the level of care an individual needs to achieve and maintain recovery. For example, inpatient programs — also known as residential treatment — are more expensive than outpatient programs because they utilize a higher level of care. In the same way, outpatient programs may cost less. However, as a result, they may not be able to provide the level of care necessary for sustained recovery.

Additionally, treatment costs vary between treatment centers and programs. Some facilities provide more luxury accommodations than others. Other centers may offer certain treatment options that are not covered by insurance, which may add extra costs to the treatment bill.

Rather than comparing costs between certain levels of care or programs, it may be more efficient to understand how insurance can help individuals better tackle the costs of treatment.

How does insurance play a role in addiction treatment costs?

Fortunately, health insurance is not just for medical concerns. Health insurance can play a large role in an individual’s ability to afford treatment. Some plans cover a significant portion of treatment, while others may cover it entirely. Individuals should speak with their insurance provider to understand their coverage options.

If speaking to an insurance representative is too daunting, staff members at treatment facilities can also provide insight into potential insurance coverage. They can ensure that an individual’s insurance provider is in network with their facility. They can also help individuals learn what services are covered under their insurance plan.

Additionally, most treatment facilities have a list of insurance providers that they accept at their facility. A quick website search can make all the difference.

Out-of-pocket costs

Even when a facility accepts someone’s insurance, there will likely still be out-of-pocket costs. Knowing about these costs in advance can take the pressure and stress off of additional financial concerns. Out-of-pocket costs can include:

  • Co-pays: A set dollar amount individuals must pay when they receive a covered healthcare service
  • Deductibles: An amount individuals must pay before healthcare insurance kicks in

Understanding medicare and medicaid

In addition to private healthcare insurance plans, there are also government-funded insurance plans. The most common include Medicare and Medicaid. Some individuals may wonder if their government-funded plans will cover the costs of rehab. In short, though they may have some coverage gaps, these plans can still do wonders in assisting individuals with paying for treatment.

Medicare is for individuals ages 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals who have disabilities. There are different parts of medicare plans that help cover specific services. Once an individual enrolls, they’ll have to apply to get different coverages. For example:

  • Medicare Part A: Also called hospital insurance, which covers inpatient hospital visits, nursing and hospice care and various home health care
  • Medicare Part B: This medical insurance covers outpatient care, certain medical services, medical supplies and preventative services
  • Medicare Part D: This refers to prescription drug coverage, which covers the costs of prescription medications, including vaccines and other shots

Medicaid, on the other hand, makes healthcare coverage available for:

  • Low-income adults
  • Children
  • Pregnant women
  • Elderly adults
  • People with disabilities

Many treatment facilities in the United States accept both Medicare and Medicaid insurance options.

Is treatment for addiction recovery worth the cost?

Simply put, treatment is well worth its cost. The effects of substance use and mental health disorders can linger and worsen over time if they are left untreated. Additionally, addiction is a family disease that affects more than just the individual who is struggling.

Despite knowing these facts, individuals must recognize that the decision to seek out or receive treatment must be their own decision for recovery to be effective. Treatment is just one component of a lifelong recovery journey. Once individuals understand that healing and recovery are priceless, they will no longer feel held back by the financial costs of treatment.

New Life Addiction Counseling and Mental Health Services understands the financial burden that treatment can seem to bring to one’s family. However, we know that the cost of treatment does not have to be a deterrent. We work with a wide range of insurance providers as well as Medicaid to ensure that individuals have access to effective mental health and substance use treatment. To learn more about our facility, call us today at (877) 929-2571.