How Much Does Rehab cost?
According to a National Survey on Drug Use, around 23 million people (9% of the U.S. population) need treatment for alcohol and/or drug use. Of these people, many do not get the treatment they need due to the expense of rehab. Addiction rehabilitation (rehab) programs range in price considerably.
The cost varies, dependent on several factors, such as types of counseling and therapy, inpatient vs. outpatient facilities, and if or not detoxification is included. Low-cost rehab options may cost as little as $5,000 per month, whereas high-end and luxury programs cost as much as $115,000 per month. High-quality rehab costs varies from $10,000 to $30,000 per month.
Four Factors affecting Cost of Rehab Programs
Four things impact the cost of attending a rehab program. These are:
- Length of the Program – One thing that significantly affects a program’s overall cost is the length of the program. A short program (only 2-4 weeks) costs less than an extended-stay program (3-6 months). When you arrive at the facility, a counselor will discuss what length of program is best for your individual needs. This will depend on a variety of factors, such as how long you have been using the substance, if mental health conditions coexist, and your work and social needs.
- Amenities – The amenities of a program include things like yoga classes, acupuncture, massage therapy, animal therapy, and professional chefs. Most low-end programs do not offer many amenities, but rather, they focus on counseling and therapy. Cheaper programs require the addict work during his/her stay at the rehabilitation center, doing chores such as washing dishes and laundry. High-end programs offer more alternative treatments that help with the recovery process. A luxury program offers maid service, and the recovering addict does not have to participate in chores and work activities.
- Location – The rehabilitation facility’s location is another factor in the overall expenses. Beachfront facilities will cost quite a bit more than those that are located at inner city areas. Also, consider travel costs, such as transportation and airfare.
- Type of program – Inpatient rehabilitation programs cost more than outpatient ones because staying at the center involves having counselors and licensed staff members available to you at all hours of operation.
Cost of Addiction vs. Cost of Rehab
When considering the cost of rehabilitation and recovery, you must also consider the cost of the addiction itself. Expenses of addiction include cost of drugs, criminal fines, medical bills related to various health problems, lost productivity at work, and replacing things lost due to the addiction. Also, consider that addiction costs you in other ways, such as lost relationships and lost career options. Overall, addiction causes poor health, strain on family relationships, marital strife, and loss of wages.
Insurance Coverage for Rehabilitation
Opens Minds Consulting Company conducted a survey in 2011 concerning the average cost of rehabilitation services. They found that the average cost of medical detox was $1,700 per day, and the average cost of a 28-day residential program was $19,000.
For many addicts, the cost of rehab is covered (at least partially) by his/her insurance plan. If the addict does not have insurance, many federally funded programs can assist with the expenses involved. Another option is attending a program that has charity donations, which cover the cost of the stay. Some facilities do require clients to pay a portion upfront, and then seek reimbursement from the insurance company later.