Yes, Medicaid typically pays at least some part of drug and alcohol rehab treatment. State insurance typically covers rehab for most individuals. While Medicaid often covers substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, Medicaid addiction treatment coverage is also highly dependent on individual state policies. Additionally, Medicaid rehab coverage may vary depending on your insurance plan. The costs associated with SUD treatment may vary between Medicaid health insurance members by state.
The amount of coverage you have can vary widely based on your state of residence, whether the facility is in-network or out-of-network, the length of your stay, and your insurance plan level. The cost of drug and alcohol rehab treatment will vary from person to person and will also depend on the rehab center, the type of program attended, and specific services received.
Medicaid addiction treatment coverage is now accepted at many substance abuse treatment facilities across the country. Again, Medicaid may or may not pay your full rehab treatment costs, but it can make treatment more affordable at rehab facilities that accept Medicaid.4 Coverage may include:
Typically, you will have no co-payment for drug and alcohol treatment. However, some states do require a co-pay. There will be a maximum co-pay that cannot be exceeded.
Additionally, Medicaid can also be a valuable asset for those who do not have private insurance, as it can allow them to access free or low-cost rehab centers. While everybody will find their costs to be different, Medicaid can help keep the cost of treatment low for low-income individuals.
Types of Substance Use Treatment That Medicaid Covers
With most Medicaid plans covering at least some of the costs of rehab treatment for drug and alcohol addiction, the types of treatment and the rehab process can vary in intensity and frequency. Types of treatment may include:7, 8
Detox Programs: In some cases, you may need assistance when detoxing from drugs and alcohol, which can potentially be uncomfortable or even life-threatening. Medical detox helps you safely withdraw from drugs and alcohol, as you’ll receive around-the-clock medical supervision. You may also be given medications to help minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Residential Care or Inpatient Treatment Centers: Inpatient/residential treatment centers provide drug and alcohol rehab while you live onsite at the facility. Most inpatient programs last anywhere from 15–90 days, depending on the program you’re in and your individual needs. Medicaid may cover residential treatment depending on the length of the treatment program.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP): Partial hospitalization programs give you the opportunity to live at home while attending treatment during the day.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Intensive outpatient programs involve attending treatment programs a few evenings a week. In an intensive outpatient program, you can live at home and even go to work during the day.
Outpatient Treatment Facilities: Individuals who have completed inpatient rehab treatment often attend outpatient treatment for ongoing support on their journey to sobriety. You live at home and spend 10–12 hours a week at the treatment facility for therapy and support.
Many people wonder if inpatient rehab vs. outpatient rehab or another type of treatment is best for them. When you decide to get treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, you can work with your healthcare provider to determine the right continuum of care based on your needs and preferences.