Overcoming alcohol addiction is not easy. Many people are unable to recover because they are reluctant to get the help they need. This could be because they are daunted by social stigmas around addiction, because they think their problem is not that bad, or because they don’t think they will be able to afford to get help.
Fortunately, insurance is available. There are many companies that cover rehab in their insurance plan. But what about Medicare?
The article will answer the question, does Medicare cover alcohol rehab so you can determine if you can afford the help you need.
What are the Signs of Alcoholism?
Many people drink, but how do you know when drinking is becoming a problem? The first sign of alcoholism is increased tolerance. A person will need to drink more to get the same effects.
After a while, they will begin to develop withdrawal symptoms. They will experience physical and mental symptoms when they don’t have alcohol in their system. The only way to get over these symptoms short term is to drink more alcohol. This takes them on a vicious cycle.
Other signs of alcoholism include the following:
- Hangovers
- Blackouts
- Engaging in dangerous behavior
- Financial difficulties
- Troubled relationships
- Cognitive issues like confusion and brain fog
- Mood swings
- Gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting
- Shaking, particularly when sober
What to Look for in an Alcohol Treatment Program
It’s important to find the rehab that’s right for you. Here are some things to look for when you make your decision.
- Atmosphere: Some rehabs have luxury amenities while others are more basic and homier. In any event, you will want to find a center that’s clean and makes you feel comfortable.
- Treatment Offered: There are many types of treatments that are recommended for recovery, including traditional and alternative therapies. It would be best if you found a facility that offers the treatments you feel are best suited to your needs.
- Staff: The center you choose should have a caring team with a high staff-to-patient ratio.
- Affordability: Rehab is generally expensive, but you can save money by finding a facility that accepts your insurance or offers payment plans.
Does Medicare Cover Alcohol Rehab?
The short answer to the question, does Medicare cover rehab for alcoholism is yes. Medicare coverage for alcohol treatment includes the following.
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy is used to treat underlying mental issues that may have caused addiction.
- Patient Education: Patients are educated about their addiction to better understand what caused it and how to treat it.
- Hospitalization: Hospitalization refers to inpatient care that may include detox and therapy.
- Partial Hospitalization: Partial hospitalization involves the patient staying in the facility 6-8 hours a day. It can be a primary therapy, or it can be used as a follow-up to inpatient care.
- Outpatient Mental Health Services: After a patient checks out of primary care, they will move on to outpatient care that involves one or more therapy sessions a week.
- Home Health Services: This is for people with mental health needs that require at-home care.
- Telehealth Services: Patients may access mental health services through virtual means.
How Long Will Medicare Pay for Alcohol Rehab?
So now we know that answer to the question, will Medicare pay for alcohol rehab, but the question is, how long will coverage last?
Medicare covers 190 days of rehab in a specialized psychiatric clinic per lifetime. However, coverage terms vary if you require outpatient or general treatment.
How to Find a Medicare Alcohol Treatment Program?
There are many treatment facilities throughout the country, but how can you find one that works for you and a rehab that accepts your insurance? My Recovery Source can help.
My Recovery Source is a free resource that specializes in matching people with the ideal rehab facility. They offer help regardless of your location or personal or financial situation. They can assist you or a loved one in finding the care you require.
Alcoholism is not easy to fight, but money shouldn’t get in the way of getting the help you need. Contact My Recovery Source to find a rehab that works for your needs and your budget. We will help you move on to a higher quality of life.
