Most commercial insurances cover addiction treatment. But if you don’t have health insurance and need addiction treatment, don’t worry. There are still many options available for addiction treatment without insurance. That does not need to be a barrier to getting your needed help. Consider these options, and consider contacting Promises Washburn House at 855.298.3104 today to learn more about your options for paying for addiction rehab. We’re here to help.
8 Options for Addiction Treatment Without Insurance
Several options are available to help people afford addiction treatment services, including state-funded programs, financing, or grants. There are also ways you can raise your funds to attend rehab.
1. Find a State-Funded Rehab Center
One option for drug and alcohol treatment without insurance is to find the nearest state-funded addiction center. These centers can offer medical detoxes, therapy and counseling, and other support systems like private clinics. The fact that the government funds them means they are often more affordable than paying for a private treatment facility. State-funded addiction treatment can be a good option for people who:
- Have a low income
- Are unemployed
- Don’t have health insurance
Programs at state-funded rehab centers come in many forms. Types of treatment include:
- Inpatient treatment – You get 24-hour care at a live-in facility.
- Outpatient treatment – You use the treatment center’s services but live at home. You may also continue to work.
- Partial hospitalization – You receive an intensive level of addiction treatment care but live at home or in supportive housing.
- Follow-up support, such as counseling
Different states have different requirements for you to access these services, but generally, you’ll need to provide:
- Proof of legal residence in the U.S.
- Proof of income status
- Information about your addiction or alcohol problem – Severity, duration, etc.
It’s important to know that there may be a waiting list for treatment. This is because state funding for drug and alcohol services is limited. Also, some people—such as pregnant women—may be given priority. In addition, limited funding means state-funded centers don’t always provide the most up-to-date technologies or treatments. This does not mean treatment won’t be effective. State-funded rehab varies in cost. It can be completely free or cost several thousand dollars. Private treatment, on the other hand, can cost tens of thousands of dollars. To find the nearest state-funded facility, use SAMHSA’s treatment locator.
2. Take Advantage of Support Groups
Support groups help many people recover from addiction and stay sober. They can be completely free. Sometimes group facilitators ask for a donation if you can make one. The two most well-known support groups are Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
Both groups are based on a 12-step program or some variation. If the 12-step program or the approaches of AA or NA doesn’t appeal to you, other support groups are available! These may include local groups for substance abuse or alcoholism or mental health issues. It’s important to remember that mental health conditions are often entangled with addiction so a mental health support group can help massively in your recovery. Do a Google search for “alcohol support groups near me,” “drug support groups near me,” or “mental health support groups near me.” You can also call a local addiction treatment center to find out if they have recommendations.
3. Research Sliding-Scale Payment Programs
Many addiction centers offer different fees for those who have lower incomes. The less you earn, the less you have to pay. If you search on Google for your state or county and “low-cost” mental health and substance abuse programs, you should be able to find a suitable service.
4. Use Financing
Financing provides you with a loan for the full amount you need for your treatment. This is one of the best options for paying for addiction services without insurance. It can be difficult to hold down a job or save money when struggling with addiction. Taking out a loan can help provide immediate support. With financing, the amount you need to pay for services is sent directly from your bank to the rehab center. You’ll also have a repayment plan to fit your budget. You won’t have to make the first payment until you finish treatment. Some plans will give you six months to find a job before you have to make any repayment.
5. Look Into Scholarships and Grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers grants for those without insurance. Check their requirements to make sure you qualify. Some rehab centers offer scholarships. Reach out to facilities near you to check!
6. Borrow Money
It may feel awkward or embarrassing to ask friends or family members to help you, but you would probably be surprised by how many loved ones are willing to do whatever they can to help you down the path of recovery. If you’re thinking of asking a friend or family member to help fund your addiction treatment, explain your story and why you’re seeking treatment now. When a loved one understands your needs, it can inspire them to support you.
7. Use Personal Savings
Many people have personal savings in case of emergencies. Addiction is one of those emergencies. Going without effective treatment puts your physical and mental health—and your life—at risk. Addiction treatment can turn your life around. So using personal savings for this purpose may be worth it.
8. Raise Money
If the above options aren’t successful, try raising money in other ways:
- Sell your possessions.
- Go without some of your favorite expenses (eating out, buying coffee, etc.)
- Ask for donations through platforms such as GoFundMe.
You may be surprised by the number of people willing to support you in your path to recovery and sobriety. Addiction treatment can sometimes be expensive. But it doesn’t have to be! Consider any of the options above or a combination of them. And don’t be afraid to ask others for support or advice, including local treatment centers.
Get the Help You Need at Promises Washburn House
At Washburn House, we are here to discuss your options and ensure you find the right rehab program for you. Learn more about our addiction treatment programs today by calling us at 855.298.3104 so we can get you started on your road to recovery.