Medicaid Substance Abuse Treatment
Medicaid is a government assistance program that provides funding for medical services to those individuals who are eligible based on low incomes. Among the many different medical and healthcare-related procedures and treatments that can be funded by Medicaid, there are substance abuse treatment centers that accept this type of payment.
How Many Facilities Accept Medicaid?
According to SAMHSA, “Over half of the substance abuse treatment facilities accepted Medicaid between 2006 (52 percent) and 2011 (57 percent).” Between these years, the number of facilities accepting Medicaid never dropped below fifty percent. While this may seem like it could make finding a facility that accepts Medicaid as payment difficult, there are actually a large number of substance abuse treatment centers in the US, and because over half accept this form of payment, it is highly probable that one could be found somewhere near you.
The Affordable Care Act has also made substance abuse treatment “an ‘essential health benefit'” that individuals must have access to and “included prevention, early intervention, and treatment of mental and/or substance use disorders” are all a part of this essential treatment option (SAMHSA). Therefore, it has been stated that individuals who need substance abuse treatment must be able to receive it as a part of health care coverage, which Medicaid is responsible for.
If you already have Medicaid, it could be very beneficial to you to try and find a facility that accepts Medicaid as a payment. Searching facilities on the FreeRehabCenter.com database and looking for those which accept Medicaid as a payment method could help you avoid paying high costs for treatment and allow you to receive the treatment you need at no extra cost. Drug addiction can take a toll on an individual financially, and Medicaid can be an asset toward paying for your treatment.
How Can I Get Medicaid?
For someone who does not currently have Medicaid, there is a possibility of getting it in order to help pay for treatment. Healthcare.gov lists the qualifications individuals must possess to be eligible for Medicaid by state, and you can discover whether or not you are eligible based on your income. Calling your local government office is another way you can find out if you’re eligible for Medicaid. According to Healthcare.gov, “You can apply for Medicaid any time of year.”
Why Should I Apply for Medicaid for Substance Abuse Treatment?
Medicaid can help you receive treatment that you may not have been able to afford otherwise. And because one of the goals of the CMS is “increased access to behavioral health services for persons with serious and/or chronic disorders,” you can get access to more treatment options and services for your addiction recovery.
It is common for those seeking treatment for substance abuse to qualify for Medicaid because of the low-income status most individuals in this situation have. If you are struggling with financial issues due to your income and are looking for affordable treatment to work through your addiction to drugs, substance abuse rehab centers that accept Medicaid can be of great assistance to your situation.