Updated on 2/1/23

The inability to afford treatment is one of the number one reasons why those struggling with addiction don’t receive help. The beliefs surrounding what people think treatment is and will cost are enough to deter those trying to figure out how to beat addictions. Not all treatment programs are the same and, therefore, will not need to cost thousands of dollars; there are plenty of opportunities to explore to help keep treatment costs low. 

The cost of treatment covers a wide range. It depends more on the severity of your addiction needs and whether you can offset treatment costs with insurance. Exploring some of the common misconceptions about treatment can help you determine whether a treatment center’s price will be high or low and what kind of treatment will be the best suit you.

Inpatient Treatment Services

Inpatient care is defined as patients staying at a medical facility for at least one night while under 24-hour supervision. With addiction, the goal of inpatient care is to remove you from your living environment, where you might become more tempted to use substances. Inpatient care is more costly, though it is the preferred choice for those struggling with more severe addictions. Inpatient allows you to focus solely on getting clean. It is also useful if you have recently relapsed or are currently living with someone who uses drugs or alcohol. Though the cost can be higher, people must consider their needs and amenities (plus room and board) that they are getting in this treatment setting.

Outpatient Services

Outpatient treatment is when you live at home and attend treatment centers or online sessions for a few hours most days of the week. Outpatient care allows you to continue working and providing for yourself and your family, which typically costs less. Understand that outpatient therapy spans over a more extended period, and you will not be removed from the triggers that add to your impulses to use drugs or alcohol. You may have a successful outpatient experience if you:

  • Are managing recovery
  • Don’t have a severe addiction problem
  • Do not live in an environment where drugs and alcohol are present
  • Temptations of drugs and alcohol are not available to you

When thinking about outpatient, consider your impulses and your environment; be honest when assessing your needs and addiction.

How You Can Afford Treatment for Substance Use Disorder

You might not be able to afford the cost of treatment by paying out of pocket. There are several ways to help make treatment more affordable and attainable — it just takes knowing where to look for help. Looking into your healthcare coverage, funding sources and financing options should provide you with the resources needed to cover treatment’s cost.

Health Insurance

Some insurance providers might require you to go through a pre-certification before going through inpatient treatment. Others might require a medical recommendation for treatment, including a diagnosis, before helping you cover the cost. Always check with your insurance provider. 

If you have a co-occurring disorder, you might get coverage for both, which would save you money. You can seek a psychologist or psychiatrist for a proper diagnosis. Always contact the treatment center you are looking to attend. Ask questions, such as:

  • What type of insurance do you accept?
  • Do you offer payment plans?

By exploring these options, you might discover that your insurance covers a good portion of the cost or that you can set up a pay as you go plan.

Alternative Financing

If you do not have insurance or a provider that will cover the cost, you can try applying for a loan. In this case, a treatment center can work with you to help you get a better deal for treatment. Some facilities even offer specific lenders to help provide financing, so in addition to talking with a treatment center about insurance, explore any financing options. 

With a loan, you will need to provide credit and income information. If you cannot provide such information, you can always look to family and friends for help. While it can be hard emotionally, being honest, expressing your needs and approximating your needs shows your friends and family that you are taking this seriously. If they support your recovery, they will likely want to help in any way. You might also consider asking for a loan and working on a plan to pay them back. If you still need assistance, you might consider seeing if any government grants can assist you.

 

The option for treatment is always there; it just takes an understanding of your financial options. It also takes the will to want to get help. Though it might be a frustrating process, consider this: the cost of addiction outweighs the cost of treatment. At New Hope Ranch, our goal is to give those seeking treatment the opportunity to do so without having to stress about finances. We work with multiple insurance providers and lenders to provide people with various financial and insurance backgrounds. The focus is on treatment and overcoming your addiction to maintain sobriety. If you are struggling to manage your addiction but are worried about affording treatment, reach out for help anyway. New Hope Ranch in Manor, Texas, can provide you with the direction and peace of mind you need to confidently begin your treatment. To learn more, call us at (737) 600-8565. Start your journey to healing today.