Rehab Admissions for Veterans: Get Someone Admitted to Rehab
If you or a loved one are ready to take the first step, learn about the Veteran rehab admissions process below.
What Is the Rehab Admissions Process for Veterans?
Referring Someone to Rehab Through the VA
If you’re looking to access addiction treatment through the VA, there are several steps you can take to ensure you or a loved one gets help. If your loved one hasn’t applied for health care benefits through the VA, find out if they are eligible here, and learn more about how to apply here.
If you need immediate help, call 911 or the Veterans Crisis Line at 988.
What If I Can’t Access Treatment Through the VA?
Sometimes, the VA can’t provide services for various reasons, such as distance to the nearest VA facility.2 In these instances, the Community Care Network (CCN) can help. The CCN is a VA program that helps Veterans access care from non-VA providers when VA services aren’t available or easily accessible. Through the CCN, Veterans can access mental health disorder treatment, including SUD treatment, from approved community providers.2
To use the CCN, you will need a referral from your VA provider. They will determine your eligibility based on distance from a VA facility, medical necessity, wait times, and other factors. Once you are approved, you can select a provider from the CCN and coordinate care with the VA.3
Veteran Benefits for Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Veterans can access a range of treatment options depending on their needs, including:1,4
- Medical detox: Medical detox helps you more comfortably and safely withdraw from certain substances (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines) while under the care of medical professionals.
- Inpatient addiction treatment: Inpatient or residential treatment programs allow you to receive 24/7 care and support in a structured environment. You live at a treatment facility, which allows you to focus on recovery.
- Outpatient addiction treatment programs: This is a flexible option that allows individuals to receive treatment while living at home and maintaining daily responsibilities.
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP): An IOP is a type of outpatient treatment offering comprehensive therapy for 9 to 20 hours per week while allowing individuals to return home in the evenings.
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP): A PHP is a highly structured treatment program that provides intensive care for 4 to 8 hours per day while allowing individuals to return home in the evenings.
- Rehab aftercare: Aftercare includes ongoing support after completing a treatment program to help maintain long-term recovery (e.g., 12-step groups and sober living).
Start the Recovery Journey
If you’re ready to find addiction treatment options for yourself or a loved one, get started with our free nationwide rehab search tool. Find addiction treatment facilities that take insurance, rehabs that allow pets, outpatient rehab programs, same-day admission rehab facilities, and more.