Medicaid is federal health insurance. It’s offered and administered by state regulations to low-income people of all ages. Some drug and alcohol rehab centers accept Medicaid to pay for services like inpatient treatment, outpatient care, therapy, and medication-assisted treatment.
About Medicaid
Medicaid began in 1965 when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed it into law. In its early days, Medicaid was simple coverage for Americans without private insurance. Federal laws require all states to offer Medicaid, but the program's parameters vary by state. The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) was created in 1997 to cover children under state health insurance. Some people are also dual-eligible for Medicaid and Medicare, which serves people over the age of 65.
Medicaid Plan Options
Medicaid, like most health insurance companies, offers coverage for substance abuse treatment . This can include inpatient and outpatient treatment, counseling, and medication-assisted treatment. The specific details of Medicaid’s substance abuse coverage will depend on your specific plan. You can contact Medicaid directly or look at your plan's coverage details online to learn more about what substance use services are covered under your plan.
Addiction Treatment Options
Medicaid for Medical Detox
Medicaid typically covers medically supervised detox programs, which involve the use of medication and other treatments to help individuals manage the physical and emotional symptoms of withdrawal from drugs or alcohol. In some cases, Medicaid may also cover the cost of inpatient or residential detox programs, providing more intensive care and support.
Medicaid and Medically-Assisted Treatment
MAT is a form of rehab that combines medication with therapy to help those recovering from addiction. Medicaid covers many forms of MAT, including methadone and buprenorphine.
Medicaid Coverage for Residential Treatment
Inpatient treatment is the most intensive form of rehab , and it typically involves staying at the center for several weeks or months. Inpatient treatment is ideal for those with severe addiction or mental health issues.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
Intensive outpatient treatment is less intensive than inpatient treatment, and it typically involves visiting the center for a few hours a day. Outpatient treatment is ideal for those who need to continue working or taking care of their family while in rehab.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
Partial hospitalization typically involves staying at the center for several hours a day. Partial hospitalization is ideal for those who need a higher level of care than outpatient treatment but do not require 24-hour supervision.