Is Alcohol Rehab Covered by Medicare?

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline is a free referral service that provides information about mental health and substance use disorder treatment programs. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in English and Spanish. People who are uninsured or underinsured can be referred to state-funded treatment programs, while those with health insurance can contact their insurer for a list of participating providers and healthcare facilities. The helpline does not offer advice, but trained information specialists can transfer callers to state services or other appropriate intake centers in their states, and connect them to local assistance and support. Alcohol and drug addiction can have a devastating effect on the entire family.

It is important to understand how substance abuse treatment works, how family interventions can be a first step to recovery, and how to help children from families affected by alcohol and drug abuse. SAMHSA provides additional resources on its website, as well as on its social media channels. Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and over, as well as certain younger people with disabilities. Medicare Part A covers inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, while Part B covers outpatient psychiatric services, alcohol abuse screenings, intensive outpatient programs and services, and drug-assisted treatment (MAT) in an opioid treatment program (OTP). Part B also covers alcohol counseling if the evaluation shows that the person is misusing alcohol but does not meet the medical criteria for alcohol dependence. Enrollment in Medicare occurs automatically once a person turns 65. There are costs associated with inpatient hospitalization and rehabilitation services under Medicare Part A.

People who qualify for Medicare benefits can access both Part A (which covers hospital visits) and Part B (which covers medical visits) and must pay a monthly premium for all the months that they need Part B coverage. Medicare Advantage members should contact their plan to find in-network providers for the treatment of mental illness, alcoholism and substance abuse. The information provided by the Alcohol Rehabilitation Guide is not a substitute for professional treatment advice.