One of the main barriers to seeking drug rehab in Pasadena CA is the cost of treatment. As this study points out, most states do little to help addiction treatment programs implement health care reform, even with resources from the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
What should come as good news is that the ACA expands health insurance for addiction treatment in the U.S. If all states implemented the ACA Medicaid expansion, almost 5 million uninsured Americans with substance use disorders could obtain health insurance through Medicaid or the Marketplaces.
If the cost of a drug recovery program in Pasadena is setting you or a loved back from getting the help that is needed, you are not alone. You are also not out of options. Here are ten ways to make addiction treatment more affordable.
- Call your insurance company
You won’t know what your insurance company covers until you call and ask. This is a great starting point, as your insurance company can go through your individual coverage options. The representative should also be able to present you with a list of in-network drug rehabs in California.
Any time you speak with your insurance company, be sure to take notes from your call. Also, get the name and number of the customer representative that you’re speaking to. This leaves a paper trail in case any of your claims are denied.
- Call the treatment center
If you don’t feel comfortable calling your insurance company, call a treatment center like Pax House Recovery. The benefit of directly calling a treatment center is that you get to speak with someone who is knowledgeable in addiction treatment services. All phone calls are free and confidential.
Because we know that taking these first steps can be difficult, Pax House Recovery allows you to get in touch by phone, email or text. Or, request a “callback” from us. We do initial assessments over the phone.
- Fill out an insurance verification form
When speaking with an admissions specialist, you may be asked to fill out an insurance verification form. This is an accurate way to determine the extent of your coverage. Each insurance plan is different, so you can’t compare insurance companies. For example, you and your friend may both have Aetna Health Insurance, but your individual plans may be different. This is why it’s important to get the facts before assuming what’s covered and what’s not.
Also, keep in mind that your coverage can change from year to year. Having an updated insurance verification form allows an admissions specialist to verify your immediate insurance benefits.
- Inquire about treatment costs
When speaking with a Pasadena drug treatment center, ask about the cost of their treatment services. Some break down their program fees better than others, but they should be able to tell you what the program costs are each month.
It’s also important to ask what is included with the services, as some treatment centers are more inclusive than others. Most programs include the cost of counseling, meals, and residential living, but some charge extra for therapeutic services and medications. To be sure that you’re comparing apples to apples, know what is included in each program.
- Consider outpatient treatment
Severe addictions are best treated in an inpatient program, but some treatment is always better than no treatment. If you have financial limitations, consider an outpatient rehab in Pasadena. Generally speaking, outpatient treatment centers are more affordable than inpatient ones because you don’t reside at the facility.
Today’s outpatient programs are especially convenient for those who need to continue working and taking care of their households. When you combine this care with 12-step groups and a strong support network, you can support complete recovery.
- Choose a credit card or personal loan
Another way that some clients pay for addiction treatment services is by taking out a personal loan or charging the service costs to a low-interest or interest-free credit card. If you’re not in a position to do this on your own, consider asking a family member. Though it may seem like a big request, you can pay back the money once you are clean and sober. In the long run, it’s far cheaper than continuing to abuse drugs and alcohol.
- Inquire about financial aid
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides information, services, and grants to substance abuse treatment centers. These grants can be used for people who need drug detox in California but don’t have the resources to pay for it.
SAMHSA grants, also known as block grants, are a federal source of funding that is mandated by Congress to help rehabs deliver care to certain segments of the population. Individuals who fall into certain groups, specifically pregnant and postpartum women, should ask about grants that may be available through the treatment center.
- Understand all of your options
Medicare Part A (hospital), Part B (medical) and Part D (prescription) can provide coverage for medical detox, counseling and aftercare services. Anyone who has Medicare because of age or disability has these benefits. If you have Medicaid, there are differences based on the state that provides them. Some states have expanded Medicaid through the ACA, which makes it a requirement to include substance abuse treatment services.
The Department of Veterans Affairs also provides recovery services for eligible veterans through the Veterans Administration (VA). Veterans can expect a wide range of treatment services, including inpatient/outpatient rehab, counseling, self-help groups, and medications.
Knowledge is power. Know all of your options for making care affordable.
- Avoid being disillusioned by “luxury” treatment
Some treatment centers are more luxurious than others. While it may sound appealing to be treated like royalty, keep your eyes on what’s most important: starting your recovery.
Luxury does not mean the same as quality. In fact, some research suggests that having too many high-end amenities can distract a person from recovery. Instead, we recommend looking for alcohol rehab in Los Angeles that offers:
- A full continuum of care (detox, counseling, aftercare)
- Holistic approach that treats the mind, body and spirit
- Wide range of services to support a well-rounded recovery
- Evidence-based therapeutic techniques
- Education and support for the family
- Start a 12-step program
If you absolutely cannot afford treatment right now, or you have been placed on a waiting list at a state-funded treatment center, you can start working toward sobriety. Find a 12-step group in your area or schedule time to meet with a counselor. There are online support services available as well, which is helpful for those in rural areas.
Addiction is Not Free – Call Pax House Recovery Today
The cost of treatment or sober living home is overwhelming for many families, but it does not need to stand in your way of getting help. It is not free to continue using drugs and alcohol, and the consequences that follow can be even more financially draining. For example, what happens if your spouse wants a divorce? Do you lose your job? You are arrested for drinking and driving?
If you or a loved one is in need of Pasadena drug and alcohol treatment, please contact Pax House Recovery today at 877-837-5403. We can verify your insurance over the phone and address your financial concerns.
