Rehab may be what you need, but one glimpse at the cost can make you want to reconsider. But before you get discouraged about funding treatment, take a deep breath.
With the right information and support system, you can figure out how to make rehab work within your budget. This guide is here to help you with that.
Understand The Costs Involved
Having a clear understanding of what impacts the prices can help you find an affordable option. Here’s what to think about as you’re looking for the right program:
- Do Your Research On Program Types
The setting of the rehab program is a cost factor to consider. Inpatient facilities where you stay onsite are typically the priciest. Meanwhile, outpatient programs, where you go for sessions but don’t stay over, are more affordable. Intensive outpatient falls in the middle price-wise since you attend frequent sessions but go home afterward.
Whether you’re attending rehab after accident or simply looking to get sober, get clear on what level of care you need so you can target programs in the right category for your budget.
- Length Of Treatment Matters Too
Most people assume a 30-day program is standard – but your optimal length of stay depends on your needs. Short-term programs of 30 days or less are usually cheaper than long-term programs of 90 days or more on average. So, work with your counselor or physician to decide what treatment duration would set you up for success at an amount you can realistically manage.
- Not All Care Is One-Size-Fits-All
Of course, everyone wants the gold-standard VIP treatment. But specialized therapies, alternative treatments, luxury amenities, and intensified medical care can ratchet up the costs quickly.
Before signing on to a rehab center, have an open conversation about what’s baseline vs upgraded so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
- Location Plays A Role
Where you attend rehab influences what the program charges. For instance, facilities in areas with a higher cost of living usually come with higher price tags.
But rather than focusing on location alone, look at it in balance with the quality of care and value for money. There are often gems that offer great treatment for far less than their neighbors.
Explore Financial Options
While rehab isn’t cheap, it doesn’t mean you have to drain your savings or go into debt to seek the care you need. With a mix of traditional and alternative funding sources, you can find ways to make treatment work money-wise.
- Tap Into Your Insurance
Give your insurance provider a call to learn about rehab benefits in your plan. There are often deductibles to meet first and copays required for sessions. But many plans do offer decent coverage, especially for inpatient treatment. Just be prepared for restrictions on facility choice and the number of days covered.
- Look Into Government Assistance Programs
If insurance falls short, see if government resources can pick up the slack. Medicaid, for instance, provides substance abuse treatment coverage for those meeting income guidelines, while Medicare Part B covers services like counseling and therapy for enrolled seniors.
Note that each program has its own rules and limitations. So, research the specifics to utilize them for rehab costs.
- Fundraise With Scholarships and Grants
There are nonprofit organizations and private donor programs that award scholarships and grants to offset rehab expenses. Check out what’s available locally and nationally, then apply to as many as possible that match your situation.
- Request Manageable Payment Plans
Given how pricey programs can be, paying upfront in full just isn’t feasible for most people. That’s where payment plans save the day.
Nearly all rehab facilities offer installment plans to break costs down into smaller bite-sized amounts. Auto-pay from your bank account can also make it even more budget-friendly. Choose plans with 0% interest, if possible, and terms you can handle.
Seek Guidance and Support
Navigating rehab costs solo can leave you feeling overwhelmed. But don’t worry; there are people who can offer guidance and point you toward valuable resources.
- Get Cost Clarity From Facilities
As you’re researching rehab programs, don’t hesitate to ask them about money matters. Have candid conversations about their pricing structure, what makes treatment affordable or higher end, and ways they help with funding.
- Involve Your Healthcare Team
Your doctor, psychiatrist, therapist or counselor have your back through this process. They often help patients take the rehab leap and are excellent resources for cost questions.
Let your healthcare team know your financial constraints and the kind of programming you need. Healthcare pros frequently know about local options, discounts you qualify for, possible insurance appeals and other cost-cutting strategies worth tapping into.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the cost factors can help you find a rehab program tailored to your finances. With persistent research, creativity around payment options and tapping into support resources, you’ll get to where you need for an achievable recovery plan.
