Does BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) Cover Alcohol Rehab?
Alcohol abuse is a major problem in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 140,000 people lost their lives to chronic and acute causes related to alcoholism between 2015 and 2019. In terms of causes that can be completely attributed to alcohol (alcohol abuse, liver disease, and other conditions directly attributed to alcoholism), more than 33,000 people lost their lives in the same period. In Pennsylvania alone, close to 6,000 people lost their lives to chronic and acute causes in the same period.1
Alcohol abuse can lead to a wide range of problems, including addiction, liver disease, and pancreatitis. It can also cause car accidents, domestic violence, and other crime.2
If you’re struggling with alcohol abuse, you may be wondering “does BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) cover drug rehab”. The good news is that most insurance plans do cover at least some of the cost of treatment.3
BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) insurance coverage does include alcohol rehab, as well as other types of addiction treatment. However, the specifics of what is covered will vary depending on your individual policy. It’s important to check with your insurer to see what is included in your coverage before beginning any treatment program.3
Who Are BlueCross BlueShield of Pennsylvania (Highmark)?
Highmark is a leading health insurer in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, offering a wide range of health insurance products and services for both individuals and families, as well as businesses of all sizes. Highmark serves more than 550,000 members through its Blue Cross and Blue Shield branded health plans, making it one of the largest providers of health coverage in the state.4
In addition to its health insurance plans, Highmark also offers a wide range of other health and wellness products and services, including dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage, as well as health savings accounts and wellness programs.4
Which Services Does BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) Addiction Treatment Include?
In general, most insurance plans will cover at least some of the costs associated with alcohol rehab. This can include both inpatient and outpatient treatment, as well as medication-assisted treatment. However, there may be some restrictions on what is covered, such as a limit on the number of days you can stay in treatment or a maximum amount that your insurer will cover.5
In general, BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) healthcare plans should include the following services:6
- Inpatient and outpatient rehab, assessed on a case-by-case basis.
- Medical alcohol detox to get the body through alcohol withdrawal, particularly for cases of severe alcoholism.
- Professional screening and guided interventions to assess co-occurring disorders and alcoholism early and encourage people to seek help.
- Behavioral therapies are meant to change a person’s relationship with alcohol and teach them how to cope with cravings.
- Treatment for co-occurring disorders, for those struggling with both alcoholism and a mental health disorder.
Are There Any Treatments BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) Rehab Coverage Doesn’t Include?
It’s important to note that not all alcohol rehab programs will be covered by insurance. Some luxury or high-end programs may not be included in your coverage. In these cases, you may be responsible for paying the full cost of treatment or the additional services provided yourself. Some of the programs and services that may not be covered by your insurance plan include:6
- Non-medical amenities: Non-medical amenities such as private rooms, couple’s counseling and rehab, concierge service, or access to recreational facilities.
- Food delivery: Some alcohol rehab programs offer meal delivery services as part of their treatment program. This service is not typically covered by insurance.
- Recreation programs: Programs that offer recreation and activities such as golf, tennis, or skiing may not be covered by your insurance plan.
- Holistic care services: Services such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture.
- Private treatment services: Services such as one-on-one counseling or therapy may not be covered by your insurance plan, and have to be paid for privately.
- Alternative therapies: Some alcohol rehab programs offer alternative therapies such as art therapy, music therapy, or equine therapy, typically covered by insurance.
What Are The Costs of Alcohol Rehab With BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) Alcohol Rehab Nationwide?
The cost of alcohol rehab varies depending on the facility and treatment plan. Treatment plans can vary in length and intensity, so the overall cost of alcohol rehab will depend on the individual’s needs. Amenities like private rooms or luxury facilities can also drive the price up.5
Additionally, some rehab centers may require payment in advance, while others may offer sliding scale financing options based on income. That said, most alcohol rehab programs will include some combination of detoxification, individual therapy, group therapy, and aftercare planning. The best way to determine the cost of alcohol rehab is to directly contact a treatment provider such as the American Addiction Centers and discuss your specific needs.5
Alcohol Rehab Inpatient Costs
There are many factors that contribute to the cost of inpatient alcohol rehab. The most obvious factors are the location of the rehab center and the type of program offered. However, other factors such as the length of the program, the amenities offered, and the type of BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) rehab coverage can also affect the cost.6
The length of the program also plays a role in the cost of inpatient alcohol rehab. Programs can last anywhere from 30 days to 90 days. The average length of stay is typically around 60 days. However, some programs may last longer if the individual has a more severe addiction.6
Alcohol Rehab Outpatient Costs
There are a variety of factors that determine the cost of outpatient alcohol rehab. The main factor is typically the location of the rehab center. In larger metropolitan areas, rehab centers can charge more for their services than in rural areas. The length of treatment can also affect the cost, as longer programs tend to be more expensive than shorter programs.6
Cost of Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol Abuse
The cost of medication-assisted treatment for alcohol abuse can vary depending on the type of medication used and the length of treatment. However, in general, the cost is relatively high. For example, a recent study found that the average cost of medication-assisted treatment for alcohol dependence with naltrexone was close to $14,000 per person per year. This cost includes the cost of medications, counseling, and other support services.7,8
Despite the high cost of treatment, medication-assisted treatment is often covered by insurance. In fact, most insurance plans cover at least some of the costs associated with medication-assisted treatment for alcohol abuse. However, it is important to contact the BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) helpline to see what coverage is available.3
Cost of Partial Hospitalization Programs for Alcohol Abuse
The cost of PHP for alcohol use can vary depending on the program. Some programs may be more intensive than others, and the length of the program can also affect the cost. Generally, however, PHP for alcohol abuse falls between inpatient and outpatient rehab costs.9
Are The Costs of Alcohol Treatment Justified?
The cost of alcohol treatment is often a major concern for those considering getting help for their drinking problem since many people don’t have BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) insurance coverage. But what many people don’t realize is that the cost of not getting treatment is much higher.10
Alcohol abuse and dependence take a toll not only on the drinker but also on society as a whole. In 2006, the cost of excessive drinking in the United States totaled more than $220 billion. This figure includes the cost of healthcare, low productivity, criminal justice, and law enforcement related to alcohol abuse.10
While the cost of alcohol treatment may seem high at first, it is important to remember that addiction is a chronic disease that requires ongoing care. In most cases, treatment is not a one-time event but rather an ongoing process that may require multiple sessions.6
The cost of alcohol treatment is also often offset by the savings generated from avoiding the negative consequences of drinking. For example, those who receive treatment for their drinking problem are less likely to experience job loss, financial problems, and relationship difficulties. They are also less likely to be involved in car accidents or other alcohol-related accidents.6
What Length of Treatment Does BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) Substance Abuse Coverage Entail?
Some insurance plans may only cover rehab for a certain length of time following intake, while others may have no coverage at all. And even if your insurance does cover rehab, there may be some limitations involved. So it’s important to do your research and find out exactly what your insurance will cover before you commit to a treatment program. Calling the BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) helpline number on the back of your insurance card will connect you to a representative who can help you verify your alcohol rehab coverage and determine the precise length of treatment during a completely confidential call.3
A large body of research indicates that longer treatment times are generally considered most effective for alcohol addiction rehabilitation. Even though each patient’s individual needs are a little different, the consensus is that a longer stay in rehab is often necessary for a successful outcome. This is supported by organizations like the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), which recommends a minimum of 90 days in treatment for people with alcohol use disorders.6
Are Inpatient Treatment Programs More Beneficial?
The main difference between inpatient and outpatient care for alcohol rehab is the received level of care. Inpatient care means that you will live at the rehab center for the duration of your treatment. This provides a more focused environment and allows for more accountability. Outpatient care means that you will visit the rehab center for therapy and group sessions, but will not live there. This can be a good option for those who have a strong support system at home and do not need 24/7 care.6
The quality of care is important to consider when choosing between inpatient and outpatient alcohol rehab. Inpatient treatment at a BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) substance abuse treatment facility means that you will have around-the-clock access to medical professionals and counselors, the support of your peers, and a nurturing treatment ecosystem. This can be beneficial if you are struggling with severe addiction and need constant support. In outpatient care means you will only have access to counselors and therapists during scheduled sessions. This can be a good option for those who are in the early stages of addiction and do not need constant medical supervision.6
How to Use BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) Coverage Nationwide?
First and foremost, if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, it’s important to consult with a doctor. They will be able to help you better understand your options and coverage.5
Once you’ve consulted with a doctor, the next step is finding a suitable BCBS of PA-covered alcohol rehab program. There are many different types of programs available, so it’s important to find one that fits your needs and budget.5
After you’ve found a rehab program, the next step is to determine your ability to use insurance. Most rehab programs will accept insurance, but it’s important to check with your provider to make sure.5
Finally, once you’ve determined your coverage, you’ll need to work with a local rehab center to finalize your treatment plan. This includes figuring out how much coverage you have and what type of treatment will be best for you.5
Where and How to Find a BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) Substance Abuse Treatment Facility?
If you have BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark) insurance and are seeking substance abuse treatment, American Addiction Centers (AAC) can help. They accept most major insurance providers, including BCBS of Pennsylvania (Highmark). AAC is one of the nation’s leading addiction treatment providers, with facilities across the country, including prestigious alcohol rehabs in Philadelphia, premier inpatient centers in Pittsburgh, renowned rehab counselors in Lancaster, a leading treatment center in New Jersey called the Sunrise House Treatment Center, and more.
AAC can verify your insurance coverage and benefits right while you’re on the phone with one of our admissions navigators. They want to make sure you get the treatment you need, so please don’t hesitate to call their alcohol rehab hotline numbers. Their treatment centers provide top-notch quality care and can help you start your journey to recovery today.
