When addiction takes hold of your life, it can lead to severe consequences in every aspect of your life. Your physical health, emotional wellbeing, relationships, and financial health may suffer from the effects of substance abuse. Some people get into legal trouble that follows them for years. And without treatment, the effects of addiction may become life-threatening.

Getting comprehensive substance abuse treatment is the best way to recover from addiction and learn how to embrace a healthier, sober future. But many people face significant barriers when seeking treatment for substance abuse. For some, the concern about how to pay for treatment may prevent them from trying to get the help they need.

In many cases, your insurance may cover some or all of the costs associated with addiction treatment, including inpatient treatment. But what about if you have Medicare? Medicare will likely cover your treatment costs if you require inpatient drug and alcohol rehab. However, there may be limitations on the type or length of services that will be covered.

Working with Medicare to determine which services are covered can be confusing. We’ve put together a guide to help you navigate your Medicare coverage. Understanding what is likely to be covered may help you make informed choices about your treatment.

For assistance when using Medicare to cover inpatient drug and alcohol rehab, reach out to the staff at Addiction Interventions for more information.

What Kind of Treatment Do I Need?

Addiction treatment is offered in various settings. There are many types of substance abuse treatment programs and several levels of care. A doctor or addiction specialist will assess your needs during an evaluation before beginning treatment.

Generally, people with a more severe addiction, those with significant mental health or medical needs, or people who have been unsuccessful in other treatment programs may be referred for inpatient treatment. During inpatient addiction treatment, patients receive high-quality, intensive treatment while living in the treatment facility.

During inpatient drug and alcohol rehab, patients engage in a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies that give them the physical and emotional support they need during recovery. These therapies include:

• Individual counseling
• Group therapy
• Education
• Medication management
• Family therapy
• Holistic therapies, such as yoga, massage, exercise, art therapy, and nutrition counseling

Inpatient treatment allows people to focus exclusively on their recovery without thinking about work, caring for family members, or completing everyday tasks like shopping, cooking, and cleaning. Inpatient drug and alcohol rehab may be the right choice for people who have attempted outpatient treatment without success or require significant mental health or medical care during treatment.

The type and length of treatment you require depends on the severity of your addiction, your treatment history, and other factors.

Understanding Medicare

Medicare is a national insurance plan offered by the federal government. Unlike private insurance plans, Medicare is only provided to individuals–not couples or families. There are two types of Medicare plans.

Original Medicare

The original Medicare plans offer coverage for hospitalization (Part A) and medical services (Part B). People may also choose to add prescription drug coverage (Part D). When a person receives medical care, Medicare covers part of the costs, and the individual pays the remainder.

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage plans are Medicare-approved plans offered by private insurance companies. Doctors and programs must be in-network to be covered by Medicare Advantage plans, but emergency or urgent care is always covered.

Navigating Medicare can be tricky. Many treatment facilities have staff to help patients determine what services and programs will be covered under their Medicare plan.

Will Medicare Cover Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Rehab?

In many cases, Medicare will cover inpatient drug and alcohol rehab programs. However, it is crucial that you understand your specific medicare plan and what it will cover before starting treatment.

Generally, Medicare Part A offers coverage for many of the services involved in addiction treatment, including:

• Hospital inpatient care
• Inpatient rehabilitation services
• Coordinated care from medical and mental health professionals
• Medications used during treatment

However, there may be limits on the type or length of services you can use. In some cases, your Medicare plan may have a 190-day lifetime limit on treatment services, including:

• Treatment at an acute care hospital
• Inpatient rehabilitation
• Long-term care hospitals
• Mental health care

Before beginning treatment, you must determine which programs and services will be covered by Medicare. Your treatment facility’s staff may be able to assist you in navigating your Medicare plan.

Should I Go to Rehab With Medicare?

Living with untreated addiction to drugs or alcohol can put you at risk for serious, sometimes life-threatening harm to your health, safety, and well-being. Because addiction is a complex issue, you must receive comprehensive treatment that addresses the condition’s mental, physical, and environmental aspects. It is essential for you to seek treatment, regardless of the type of insurance you have.

In many cases, Medicare will cover the cost of some or all of the services associated with drug and alcohol rehab. You do not have to manage this alone. Reach out for the help you need today.

Get Help Now

If you are wondering if Medicare covers inpatient drug and alcohol rehab, reach out to the staff at Addiction Interventions for assistance in understanding your specific plan. Our team can verify your insurance, match you with a rehab center, and help you determine the details of how you will pay for rehab. Call now to get started.