What Does BCBS of Oklahoma Insurance Cover for Opioid Treatment?
With 136 deaths a day and growing, the opioid epidemic has become a serious public health concern in the United States. Over 10 million people abuse opioids annually, and almost 50,000 lose their life to overdose each year. In Oklahoma alone, 308 people on average die every year from opioid overdose, with prescription opioids being responsible for over 55% of those fatalities.1
The cost of treatment and understanding how to pay for opioid rehab services are preventing many from seeking treatment. Fortunately, apart from many low-cost or free treatment facilities, most rehab facilities accept Medicaid and private health insurance policies. Additionally, the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act obligate insurance companies to treat addiction the same as any other medical procedure or service, and cannot deny you coverage for opioid treatment.2
As one of the most reputable insurance companies, BCBS of Oklahoma coverage nationwide includes opioid rehab to some extent, based on your specific policy.2 Before starting the process, learn more about what that coverage might entail and how you can use it to help yourself or a loved one get the treatment you deserve.
An Introduction to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma
BlueCross BlueShield of Oklahoma (BCBS OK) is a non-profit health insurance company headquartered in Oklahoma City. The company provides health insurance plans to over 700,000 members and is the only statewide customer-owned insurance company in Oklahoma. BCBS of Oklahoma offers a variety of health plans, including individual, small group, and large group plans.3
What Treatment Programs Are Covered by BCBS of Oklahoma Addiction Treatment?
There are a variety of treatment options and programs that are covered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma addiction treatment. These may include:4,5,6
- Screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment are used in primary care facilities to identify people with opioid abuse issues and refer them to treatment early. This procedure has the potential to prevent serious drug abuse issues including overdose and connect people to different treatment providers.
- Medical detox is an important first step in overcoming addiction. Although medically assisted detox can help manage acute withdrawal symptoms, it is rarely able to help individuals achieve long-term sobriety. Comprehensive addiction treatment that combines detoxification with behavioral therapies and relapse prevention planning is essential for sustained abstinence.
- Inpatient opioid treatment programs provide a structured and supportive environment for individuals who are seeking to overcome an addiction to opioids. Inpatient treatment programs can be vital in helping someone achieve and maintain sobriety, and can provide a foundation for long-term recovery.
- Outpatient opioid treatment programs provide support and care for individuals who are recovering from opioid addiction but are not expected to live in the rehab facility. These programs offer a variety of services, including counseling, therapy, and medication-assisted treatment.
- Behavioral therapies for opioid addiction can include a variety of interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and contingency management (CM). CBT is a type of therapy that helps people understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are related.
- Co-occurring disorders are treated at 53.4% of all treatment centers in Oklahoma. Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis, are used to describe when a person experiences a mental health condition and opioid use disorder. There are a number of treatments available for co-occurring disorders, and the most effective approach will be unique to each individual and developed following an initial assessment.
Are There Services Insurance Won’t Cover?
Even though the majority of opioid treatment is covered by insurance, there are some aspects not covered. There are several services that are not considered medically necessary and are therefore not covered by insurance. This can include private rooms, gym access, and food delivery. In addition, insurance generally does not cover unproven and alternative treatment methods and holistic therapy practices such as yoga, reiki, or acupuncture.4
How Much Can You Expect to Pay for Opioid Treatment Services?
Treatment for opioid addiction may be expensive for some. The costs will vary depending on the type of treatment and the length of time needed. Some people may need to stay in a rehab center, while others may only need outpatient care. Additionally, several factors can affect how much treatment will cost. These include location, duration, and the services provided.7
In most cases, you’ll have a deductible and a co-pay, a portion of the cost you have to pay upfront before your benefits start covering costs. When choosing a treatment facility, it is important to check with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma to see if they have any preferred facilities or providers in your area. This will help prevent any unexpected costs later on, as your insurance company will be more likely to cover the services you receive if you go to a preferred provider.2
How Much Can You Expect to Pay for Inpatient Rehab?
The price of inpatient rehab for opioid abuse can depend on a few things. The location of the rehab, the type of program, and the insurance coverage all play a role in how much you will end up paying privately. Additionally, the type and scope of services provided will also count towards the price of inpatient rehab.4,5
Inpatient opioid programs require that individuals live in the facility for the duration of the treatment, which may last anywhere from 30 to 90 days. Treatment includes both individual and group therapy and medication management when needed.8
Inpatient rehab for opioid abuse can be expensive, but there are ways to help offset the cost. Many insurance plans will cover at least part of the cost of treatment, and there are also a number of grants and scholarships available to help with the remaining balance.2
How Much Can You Expect to Pay for Outpatient Rehab?
The cost of outpatient rehab can vary depending on the facility, location, length, and services received. In general, outpatient treatment lasts between two months and a year. Some programs require daily attendance, while others meet one to three times per week.4
Typically, outpatient rehab costs less than inpatient rehab, but the cost may still vary from one treatment provider to the next. It’s usually best suited for people able to commit to the program and attend regular counseling and therapy sessions.4
How Much Can You Expect to Pay for Day Treatment?
Partial hospitalization program (PHP) or day treatment has individuals attending intensive sessions at a treatment facility while living at home. The activities at the treatment center are longer and more intensive than outpatient treatment, therefore its price falls between inpatient and outpatient treatment, with many patients transitioning to outpatient treatment at some point due to the higher levels of care.8
Therapy sessions may include group and individual sessions, as well as medication management services if necessary. Taking part in the program may require people to take time off from work due to its requirement for long hours.8
How Much Can You Expect to Pay for Medication-Assisted Therapy?
The cost of opioid abuse medication-assisted treatment (MAT) may vary greatly depending on the program and treatment options chosen. In general, costs may range from $126 per week to $1,176 per month. It is important to work with an addiction counselor to find the best option for treating opioid abuse.9
Regular weekly visits, drug administration, drug testing, and related services are also included in the price of medication-assisted treatment. The most commonly used treatments for opioid use include Naltrexone, Buprenorphine, and Methadone.9
How Do the Costs of Treatment Compare to the Costs of Opioid Addiction?
The cost of opioid addiction rehab can be a major concern for those seeking treatment. BCBS of Oklahoma healthcare plans should cover at least some portion of the costs. Therefore, finding an in-network rehab program that meets your requirements is not that difficult. Addiction to opioids can negatively impact your life, including your relationships, professional aspirations, and overall wellbeing. Getting treatment on time is crucial since it may even be fatal.10
Substance abuse is more expensive to treat than it is to prevent. Substance abuse treatment costs about $1,500 annually, while the criminal justice system costs, productivity losses, and healthcare expenses associated with SUD add up to more than $11,000 annually.11
The total cost of opioid addiction and overdose in the United States in 2013 came to 78 billion dollars. Out of that, just $2.8 billion, or 3.6%, went towards treatment.12
How Long Does Treatment for Opioid Addiction Last With BCBS of Oklahoma?
Most if not the entire length of opioid treatment may be covered under the BCBS of Oklahoma healthcare plans. This may include the cost of inpatient and outpatient rehab, medication-assisted treatment, and other treatment programs.2
Outpatient treatment length can vary depending on the individual’s needs, but it typically lasts from a few months to a few years. Inpatient treatment may be long or short-term and usually lasts for 30, 60, or 90 days.5
Depending on your insurance coverage and the facility’s location, the length of treatment covered may vary. Make sure you’re fully covered by reaching out to your insurance company representatives and verifying your coverage. You can reach the BCBS of Oklahoma helpline through the number printed on the back of your insurance card.2
Are Inpatient Programs More Beneficial for Opioid Rehabilitation?
Inpatient and outpatient treatment centers for opioid abuse offer different but equally important services to those suffering from addiction. Inpatient treatment involves residing at the local treatment center for the duration of the program, which can last anywhere from 30 to 90 days. On the other hand, outpatient treatment allows patients to live at home while attending scheduled appointments at the treatment center.4,5
Both inpatient and outpatient treatment centers offer a variety of services to help patients overcome addiction, including detoxification, counseling, and medication-assisted treatment.5
Inpatient treatment centers offer a higher level of care and supervision than outpatient treatment centers, making them ideal for those who are struggling with a severe addiction, which is often the case with opioid abuse.1,5
Some standard benefits of inpatient treatment include:5,10
- Patients receive around-the-clock care and support.
- Detoxification is supervised and patients are monitored for withdrawal symptoms.
- Patients feel safe and secure in a supportive environment.
- They can focus on getting better without the distractions and stress of everyday life.
- They can develop a positive support system with other patients in treatment.
- Patients have access to medical care and treatment if they experience any physical side effects from withdrawal or detoxification.
- They can receive medication-assisted treatment to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
How to Use BCBS of Oklahoma Rehab Coverage to Finance Your Treatment?
You can ask your insurer about coverage for substance abuse by calling the drug or alcohol hotline number on the back of your card or by visiting the BCBS of Oklahoma website. Request a list of preferred facilities or providers in your area from your insurer. Your insurance company will be more likely to cover the treatment services received at a treatment facility or program from this list.2
Additionally, you can reach out to the treatment facility directly and ask if they accept BCBS of Oklahoma healthcare plans. The admissions navigators at American Addiction Centers will guide you through the process, from confirming your insurance and offering additional financing options, to guiding you through the admissions and intake process and what you can expect when getting help at an AAC facility.
Getting the Help for Opioid Use Disorder in Oklahoma
If you are looking for an opioid treatment program in Oklahoma, you can go to a few different places. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a search tool on its website that can help you find a program in your area. You can also call the AAC helpline for free and confidential information on local SUD treatment services in Oklahoma. For instance, you can find:
- Numerous reputable treatment centers in Tulsa.
- Specialized opioid treatment facilities in Edmond.
- Inpatient and outpatient expert programs in Stillwater.
- Reliable medical detox facilities in Ardmore.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to opioids, it’s important to get help as soon as possible, and some treatment centers offer same-day admissions for patients at risk. Opioid addiction can be a very serious problem, and it can be difficult to overcome on your own, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
