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How Do I Choose the Right Rehab Facility?

Congrats on deciding to start your recovery! The first barrier between you and a drug-free life is finding the best rehab. Luckily, it’s easier than you think. 

The best rehab is one that tailors treatment to your needs. You’re the only patient with your unique history! Cookie-cutter treatment solutions don’t work, so look for a treatment center that treats you like an individual. 

That aside, there are 4 important factors when choosing the right rehab. 

They include: 

  • The licenses and credentials each rehab has
  • The treatment methods each rehab uses
  • Whether the rehab offers short- or long-term treatment
  • Whether you can use insurance to cover the cost

We’ve done the research so you don’t have to—now choosing a facility doesn’t have to take so long! Here’s what to look for in a treatment center: 

Rehab Licensing and Accreditation

Drug rehabs in the United States should be licensed by the state. Depending on the locality, they might need to have other credentials or clearances, too. 

In general, a facility needs to be licensed if it offers any of the following: 

  • Detox services
  • Group sessions
  • Individual sessions
  • Recovery planning
  • Treatment planning

The Department of Health Care Services issues facility licensing for each state. Your local DHCS can tell you what rehabs are licensed and accredited. 

However, this is information that a good treatment center should offer on its own! If a treatment center doesn’t tell you that it’s licensed, that could be a red flag. Read our article on how to check if a drug rehab is licensed.

Rehab Treatment Methods

Each rehab center offers its own set of treatment methods. It’s most important that your treatment center tailors treatment to your needs. 

That being said, some effective treatment methods include:

  • Activities: The best rehabs keep you focused by giving you plenty of healthy emotional outlets. Some choices include yoga, art, and music therapy. 
  • Daily check-ins: The more involved you are in your care, the better. 
  • Group support: Access to a 12-Step group or a support group can make a huge difference in recovery. 
  • Therapy: Different types of talk therapy can help you learn to live drug-free. 
  • Medication-assisted treatment: Drugs such as Suboxone can help beat cravings. This kind of treatment is available for some opioid or alcohol patients. 

Your care team will talk to you about the types of treatment available. They’ll help you choose the ones that are right for your case. 

Short-Term or Long-Term Rehab

What rehab length is right for you? It’s different for every person but in general, longer rehab stays are better. Consider looking for a rehab that offers at least a 90-day stay

Research shows that you have better outcomes when you stay in rehab for at least 90 days. Stays shorter than that can lead to relapse! It takes time to rebuild healthy coping strategies. When you cut that short, it’s harder to stay focused on recovery. 

If you’re in treatment using Suboxone or other medication for opioid control, then 12 months is the minimum you should consider.

Either way, it seems clear: Long-term rehab is the right choice for most people. 

Insurance Coverage for Rehab

 Paying for the cost of rehab is a big consideration that deserves some thought. Insurance coverage is an option at many rehabs.

Depending on the facility, your options can include: 

  • Healthcare.gov: People who don’t qualify for private insurance can qualify for marketplace insurance. This is government-funded insurance available at full price or with a tax benefit (depending on your income). 
  • Private insurance: Common private insurers include Cigna and United Healthcare. You might qualify for private health insurance through a job or a spouse. 
  • Medicare: You’re eligible for Medicare if you’re disabled or over 65. Only certain disabilities count, such as end-stage kidney disease. 
  • Medicaid: If you’re living under your state’s poverty line you may qualify for Medicaid. You also may qualify if you’re pregnant, have children, are disabled, or are over 65. 

If you think you qualify for Medicare or Medicaid, contact your local benefits office. They can help you through the application process. 

An insurer may pay for all or part of the cost of rehab. You might need a referral from your primary care doctor to help insurance to agree to cover the treatment.

Finally, some private rehabs accept only cash payments. Cash-only rehabs shouldn’t be your first choice. They’re less likely to work with you as a patient overall. 

Start Rehab for Drug Abuse Today

If you’re ready for treatment, we’re ready to help! Start your recovery by calling Rehab Adviser today. 

Our inpatient rehab program includes the most effective treatments on the market today. We’re committed to helping you take your life back from substance abuse—and the journey starts now! 

References

  1. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (n.d.). How long does drug addiction treatment usually last? Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/frequently-asked-questions/how-long-does-drug-addiction-treatment
  2. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (n.d.). Types of Treatment Programs. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/drug-addiction-treatment-in-united-states/types-treatment-programs
  3. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (n.d.). Drug Addiction Treatment in the United States. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/drug-addiction-treatment-in-united-states