What to Do If You’re On a Waitlist for Rehab

If you or a loved one is on a rehab waiting list, you’ve already taken the first step towards recovery. Waiting to start rehab can be difficult, however there are steps you can take to keep moving forward in your journey while you wait. Keep reading to learn more about what to do if you’re on a waitlist for rehab.

Why Are There Waitlists for Rehab?

There can be waitlists for rehab for a number of reasons. In many cases, being put on a waitlist is the result of a facility not having enough beds available at the time of your inquiry.¹ Others may encounter obstacles with their insurance coverage or have difficulty finding ways to fund their treatment, causing them to be placed on a waitlist until financial details are ironed out.¹ Sometimes, getting put on a waitlist comes down to your location – are you attempting to get into a popular rehab facility?¹ Is there only one treatment center in your area? Factors such as these can contribute to your odds of being placed on a waitlist or not. 

What to Do While You’re Stuck on a Rehab Waitlist

If you are waiting to get into rehab, the best thing you can do is take steps to prepare for treatment. From preparing your insurance information to making necessary arrangements, being proactive can ensure you’re ready to start your recovery as soon as a spot is available. 

1. Get Your Insurance Information Ready

Understanding your insurance coverage is vital prior to starting recovery. Most facilities will verify your insurance during the admissions process, however, having your insurance card and any supporting documents on hand can streamline the process and prevent further delays. 

Also, if you are not familiar with the specifics of your insurance, reach out to your insurance provider to learn about your plan. You can reduce unwanted and unexpected surprises if you are aware of how much coverage you will receive for certain addiction treatment services, as well as what other options you may have through your insurer. 

2. Contact Multiple Rehab Facilities

While not ideal, contacting more than one rehab facility after being placed on a waitlist can help increase your chances of getting into treatment sooner. Call any other facilities you were eyeing and see what services they offer and how soon they can admit you. You can also reach out to your insurance provider for a list of in-network treatment centers near you. This can increase your opportunities and ensure you find affordable, covered care.

At American Addiction Centers (AAC), our team of dedicated professionals will help guide you through the process of finding treatment that works for you. Even if you are currently on a waitlist elsewhere, reach out to us right now by calling . We have brick and mortar facilities throughout the country that offer a variety of programming options that can help you achieve your sobriety goals. 

3. Prepare for Rehab

Life doesn’t stop when you enter treatment. Therefore, it can be helpful to ensure that your personal and professional affairs are in order prior to your admission. Some things to consider:

• If you have children, determine childcare options. 
• Stay up-to-date on all bills, and ensure that someone can make your payments while you are in treatment or that you elect automatic withdrawals through your online account. 
• Speak with your employer about your leave. Fill out any necessary paperwork, tie up any loose ends, and delegate any responsibilities you have to the appropriate people. 
• If you have any financial or legal issues, do what you can to square them away prior to entering into treatment. 

These are just some ways that you can prepare for rehab while on a waitlist. Take any additional steps you deem necessary so that you can remain focused on your recovery, not on what is going on outside of treatment. 

4. Pack and Coordinate Travel Arrangements

Being on waitlist likely means that you do not have an exact date or time that you will be admitted into treatment. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have your travel arranged. Be sure you have someone on deck who can give you a ride to the facility (or to the airport if you are not staying local) if you are not driving there on your own. Try to determine how you will get back home after treatment is completed and who may be able to assist you in your return. 

Additionally, pack a bag. Most treatment facilities provide a list of what to bring (and what not to bring) to rehab. Try to obtain that list from the facility so you can be all packed and ready when the time comes to be admitted. Typically, treatment facilities encourage patients to bring things such as a few sets of clothes, some shoes, a small amount of cash, any prescription medications you are currently on, etc. Be sure to double check that you are not packing anything that is prohibited from the facility, which usually include items such as razor blades, weapons, drugs or alcohol, etc. 

5. Find a Local Support Group

Support groups provide a safe space to share your story and work toward recovery with peers on similar paths.² Finding a local support group, like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can help you stay on track in recovery until you leave for treatment (and again once you return home). Remaining in support groups even after completing treatment can keep you accountable and allow you to continually grow in your recovery journey.²

Start The Recovery Journey

Whether you’re considering medical detox, inpatient drug and alcohol rehab, and/or outpatient programs for drug and alcohol addiction, or are currently on a rehab waiting list, our team at AAC is here every step of the way. Contact us right now to be connected to one of our admissions navigators. All calls are free, confidential, of no-obligation.

Let us help by answering any questions you have and connecting you to the care you need to get sober. Call us right now our to learn more about using health insurance to pay for rehab, or have your insurance verified with us directly. You can also fill out the form below.