As more people seek help for their substance abuse problems, the concept of outpatient treatment programs gains popularity. This type of program has become desirable, especially because it allows recovering addicts to participate in treatment without having to abandon their daily responsibilities. This greater sense of freedom is one of the major factors that distinguishes outpatient treatment from inpatient programs.
Since outpatient treatment is less structured than inpatient programs, it’s reasonable to expect it to take a little longer. The weekly schedule for outpatient treatment is less restrictive, so recovering addicts can continue to function. This can lead those seeking treatment for the first time wondering how much time will be spent in treatment. This overview can settle some of those concerns and provides a general overview of outpatient treatment programs.
How Much Time Do You Spend in Outpatient Treatment Programs?
While outpatient treatment allows you to live at home, you are required to spend a significant portion of each day in treatment sessions. Most programs require recovering addicts to attend treatment at least five days a week and each day requires full-time attendance. Alternatively, some facilities offer seven day programs, which allow the patients to adopt part-time daily schedules. This may be preferable for those with more responsibilities outside of treatment.
As the individual begins participating in the outpatient treatment program, he or she may be required to spend much of each day participating in various types of group and one-on-one therapy sessions. A daily 10-12 hour schedule is typically filled with counseling, peer group meetings, and other activities. However, as the individual progresses through the program, he or she may not be required to spend as much time engaged in therapy sessions. Over time, they may be able to reduce the amount of time spent at the treatment facility each day, although this will depend on the programs offered by the facility and the severity of the individual’s addiction
- No longer considers addiction and mental illness pre-existing conditions for insurance purposes
- Sponsors insurance plans that are for sale on a sliding-scale basis on the Health Insurance Marketplace
- Provides need-based tax credits to low-income individuals who otherwise would not be able to afford health insurance
These provisions make it so that addiction treatment coverage is just as complete and comprehensive as coverage is for any other medical procedure or treatment. This rule applies to both private health insurance plans and ones purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Lastly, the ACA reduces addiction rehab costs, increases options for treatment, and extends benefits provided by group employee insurance plans.
Regardless of whether you get your insurance from a private entity, your workplace, or state or federal medical plans, your insurance should cover some portion of drug and alcohol rehab in Massachusetts.
Substance Abuse Treatment Services Covered by the ACA in Massachusetts
As a result of the introduction of the ACA in 2010, health insurance providers cannot discriminate against people with pre-existing conditions or deny coverage for those with pre-existing conditions. Health insurance plans must provide coverage for:
- Medical detox services – Detox may involve inpatient and overnight stays, medications, and around-the-clock support.
- Inpatient behavioral health services – Inpatient rehab can last 30, 60, or 90 days and involves individualized counseling, treatment medications, and housing.
- Outpatient counseling – Outpatient programs involve group and individual therapy as well as medication management on a flexible and affordable basis.
Only services that are deemed medically necessary are required to be covered by your insurance. Additional services, such as acupuncture, massage, recreation programs, or meal plans are less likely to be covered by your plan. Instead, you may be responsible for those out-of-pocket costs.
Finding a Rehab Facility that is In-Network With Your Insurance Provider
While the ACA mandates insurance companies to cover mental health and addiction rehab services, it does not specify whether or not they have to provide coverage for all facilities. For instance, your insurance provider may cover treatment at one rehab in Massachusetts but not the next. That is because there are in-network and out-of-network options. In-network options are usually cheaper.
To figure out who is in-network with your insurance provider, you can do one of two things:
- Contact your insurance provider and ask them which facilities are in-network with your insurance plan.
- Speak to an admissions counselor and let them verify your insurance.
Dealing with insurance companies can be confusing and stressful, so we always recommend the latter. Plus, an admissions coordinator can help match you with the right rehab facility so you are able to obtain affordable and quality care.
Get The Care You Need and Deserve
Woburn Addiction Treatment is a leader in the addiction treatment field, with proven success in facilitating long-term recovery. Our team of top clinical & medical experts specializes in treating addiction coupled with mental illness, ensuring that each person receives individualized care. Call us – we’re available 24/day, 7 days/week.
Verify Your Insurance and Start Rehab in Massachusetts Today
If you’re wondering whether or not your insurance will cover rehab in Massachusetts, we can help. Our dedicated admissions counselors are standing by, ready to take your call, verify your insurance, learn about your treatment needs, and help you begin your recovery journey. Don’t wait any longer. Affordable and effective rehab that doesn’t break the bank is only a phone call away.
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