Finding a rehab can be a challenging and stressful experience on its own. Unfortunately, it can be even more challenging when you don’t have much money to pay for treatment.
It’s important for everyone to get the help they need regardless of their ability to pay. There are different types of free rehab programs that exist to provide access to treatment for those who are uninsured or underinsured. With the burden of paying for treatment off the table, clients can be more able to focus on their recovery and begin to achieve long-term sobriety.
Who Pays for Rehab When You Can’t?
There are various forms of financial assistance available whenever someone can’t pay for rehabilitation. Different types of assistance you can receive include community resources, government funded grants and public assistance programs.
Along with public programs, clients can receive partial financial assistance through Medicaid and Medicare. There’s also the option of a sliding fee scale or a payment plan to make it easier for individuals to pay for treatment.
Block Grants From SAMHSA
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides block grants that funds mental health and substance abuse treatment for states and territories. Some of the targeted initiatives their funding supports include harm reduction, treatment drug courts and first responder-comprehensive addiction and recovery act.
SAMHSA makes grant announcements called notice of funding opportunities. It details the goals of the program being funded, the eligibility criteria and the application forms that are required.
If you qualify, you’ll receive treatment at a state run or federally managed rehabilitation facility.
Apart from state-run facilities funded by block grants, there are some private facilities that will provide free treatment through a private scholarship.
Medicaid and Medicare
In some cases, a rehabilitation facility may accept Medicaid or Medicare as a part of paying for your treatment. Although they sound similar, there are some key differences between these two insurance coverages.
Medicaid generally covers low-income individuals and families. The 2010 Affordable Care Act mandated it to cover all basic aspects of substance use disorder treatment including inpatient and outpatient services, counseling, life saving medications, mobile crisis services and community-based supports. Medicaid recipients may not have any co-payments for their addiction treatment depending on the state they reside.
Medicare is a type of insurance that provides coverage for individuals who are 65 and older, have certain disabilities or have end-stage renal disease. Medicare covers alcohol and substance use disorder treatment only when medically necessary.
Medicare Part A may cover inpatient care and Medicare Part B may cover outpatient care. Patients will pay a varied cost depending on the specific plan they have.
U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
Individuals who are veterans and receive benefits from the Department of Veteran Affairs may qualify for free rehabilitation services. You can contact your VA provider or local VA office to determine if you’re eligible for free addiction treatment.
Sliding Scale Fees
Treatment facilities that offer sliding scale facilities adjust the cost of rehabilitation services based on your income and your ability to pay. The lower your income is, the lower your fees will be. It helps to remove cost as a barrier to your treatment.
You will fill out an application where you’ll provide information about your household size and income. This information will determine your eligibility and the appropriate fee level. It not only benefits the patient, but it also benefits the provider by expanding their range of clients so their practice can remain financially viable.
Services Provided at Free Rehabs
Clients who are treated at free rehabilitation facilities can receive a wide variety of services. If there are free rehabilitation programs that are detox centers only for those who are just getting started with treatment. The staff will help you remain comfortable and make sure you have a safe withdrawal.
Once you’ve stabilized, you can be referred to a facility that offers free inpatient treatment services. Clients would begin to understand the cause of their addiction through individual counseling sessions.
You may also participate in group therapy so that you can receive insight and encouragement from peers who are also undergoing recovery. It will also give you a great opportunity to practice your communication skills.
As you transition to outpatient care, you’ll continue to receive counseling. Your family and friends may be encouraged to participate in the treatment process to mend relationships and support your long-term sobriety.
Are Free Rehabs Accredited?
Yes, free rehabs are accredited just like other rehabilitation facilities. The treatment center will either be accredited by The Joint Commission or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. The facilities will also be certified by SAMSHA since they are typically funded through this organization’s block grants.
In addition to being accredited, the professional staff that will work at a free rehabilitation center will be properly credentialed. In cases where you’ll need medication, the rehab may be staffed with medical personnel such as nurses, nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
What is Not Provided by Free Rehabs?
Free rehabilitation centers provided most of the same services as any other rehabilitation facility. Certain amenities and adjunctive modalities may not be provided, such as music, acupuncture and yoga. While these holistic therapy options may not be available, you’ll still receive evidence based treatment that can support your recovery.
Policies and Procedures of a Free Reha
Free rehabilitation facilities will typically have requirements for individuals to be accepted into their program. You’ll have to provide proof that you’re a residence of the state that you’re seeking treatment from. You’ll also have to show proof of citizenship or legal residence in the United States.
Additionally, clients need to show an inability to afford other treatment based on low income or a lack of insurance. Once you’ve been accepted into the rehab, you’ll be required to follow all of the abstinence guidelines, procedures and policies set by the free rehab program.
No one should be denied addiction treatment because of a lack of finances. Free rehab programs give clients a chance to get the recovery services they need to begin living a sober life.
