One of the most significant barriers to recovery for many people is the cost of treatment. But for some, hope for recovery comes in the form of a scholarship. State-funded addiction rehab centers can make all the difference for thousands of struggling addicts. These state-funded recovery programs offer an affordable option to seek substance abuse treatment.
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health in 2016, of the 21 million people who needed substance use treatment, roughly 3.8 million sought and received treatment of any kind in the 12 months before surveying. Only 2.2 million people accessed such treatment through a specialty facility.
What is a State-Funded Addiction Rehab Center
These are organizations that use government money, distributed by the state to support people in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. It gives low-income individuals or those with no insurance access to detox, treatment programs, and recovery support services.
Like traditional for-profit addiction rehab centers, under these subsidized programs, people can choose inpatient or residential treatment, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs, as well as aftercare support.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the money to fund these programs comes from various sources. Some are provided directly through SAMHSA in the form of federal grants and Medicaid reimbursements. Other portions come directly from the state budget.
However, the amount and the type of support available varies per state — as do the requirements to qualify — which can make the process of seeking help a bit more challenging.
Pros and Cons of State-Funded Rehab
Of course, as with anything, there are some positives and negatives about state-funded rehab programs.
Pros:
- Access to addiction treatment programs at a low cost or even free of charge.
- State-funded addiction rehab centers provide evidence-based treatment options and must employ certified professionals and licensed staff.
Cons:
- Due to the limited capacity of these programs, there’s often a waiting period before someone can join a treatment program.
- With limited budgets, many state-funded rehab centers are unable to invest in upgrades to their facilities and methodologies.
Who is Eligible for State-Funded Rehab?
Overall, the eligibility criteria changes by state, as well as offerings when it comes to rehab state-funded programs. It’s important to locate the specific state agency that manages these programs and see how to qualify in your particular state. The Directory of Single State Agencies (SSAs) for Substance Abuse Services provided by SAMHSA provides contact information for these agencies in each state.
In Florida, dialing 211 will connect you to an operator who can recommend free or low-cost programs. The operators here can help with finding Florida drug or alcohol rehabs, help for mental health issues, domestic violence, food and shelter, and countless other problems that people may face. Many treatment centers, charities, and private organizations also offer scholarships.
Generally, those who want to enroll in a state-funded addiction rehab center will need to provide:
- Proof of residence
- Show proof of income status
- Proof of legal residence in the United States
- Personal information on addiction therapy
Unfortunately, even when someone meets all the requirements, there might be a waiting period before they can start treatment. This can often deter people from getting help, and often people chose not to pursue any treatment anymore. As a result, many of these state-funded drug rehabs provide outpatient treatment and medical maintenance services for those who are waiting for more intensive treatment.
How are State-Funded Addiction Rehab Centers Different
Some state-funded addiction rehab centers might be outdated. Due to limited funding, compared to private treatment centers, they aren’t always able to provide the latest technologies and treatment. However, this isn’t to say that the therapies offered won’t be effective.
Studies have shown that treatment in general – any level of treatment – is better at providing positive outcomes in lowering substance use, improving personal healthcare and social relationships, and increasing public health and safety than no treatment.
However, state-funded rehab relies solely on traditional, evidence-based treatments and may not be able to offer the latest in complementary treatment options. Some of these facilities provide detox or medical management only but will refer the client to counseling services and self-help groups after the fact. Most private treatment centers count with in-house counseling and other support services.
State-funded programs might not be as comfortable in terms of accommodations as private organizations. Here, the focus is more on treatment rather than spa-like accommodations. Still, those looking to overcome their addictions should not find this to impede their recovery journey.
Cost
The cost of a state-funded addiction recovery program can range from free to several thousand dollars. It all depends on the individual’s qualifications for the program and the required intensity of treatment. For example, inpatient programs are often more costly than outpatient ones.
Depending on the circumstances and the state’s policy, it might be possible for someone to be fully subsidized for treatment.
Private treatment, on the other hand, can range from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Here, the level of comfort, amenities, and the facilities account for the difference in prices. Some luxury rehab centers can be quite expensive for some people. In some cases, a percentage of this cost can be covered by insurance, someone even the majority of the cost.
Payment Options
With the passage of the Affordable Care Act, more Americans have access to treatment for addiction, mental health, and behavioral health disorder treatments. The type of coverage will vary depending on the plan someone has. Some people can access insurance coverage through employee assistance programs if they hold their insurance through a job.
How to Find State-Funded Addiction Rehab Centers Near You
SAMHSA provides a directory of Single State Agencies (SSAs) for substance use services, the state government agencies that coordinate the delivery of services to individuals with substance use disorders.
Another helpful tool to locate state-funded addiction rehabilitation centers near you is the Treatment Services Locator, provided by SAMHSA, is a useful tool that allows you to find nearby treatment facilities based on your home address. Here you can filter based on specific needs, such as settings, payments accepted, availability of payment assistance, and any special programs and support services.
How to Help Recovering Addicts
Scholarships and state-funded programs are great options. But unfortunately, funds are limited. We can help by advocating for access to care. Additionally, we have a voice as citizens, and we can tell our lawmakers that drug and alcohol rehabilitation matters to us.
Even if calling your representative to advocate for more funding for addiction treatment is out of your wheelhouse, there are other actions you can take:
- Many addicts and alcoholics don’t have proper interview clothes to find work, for example. Donating clothes can be a direct way to help people access the support they need in early recovery.
- Another option is volunteering time. Such as offering to help someone make a resume or get a ride to the food bank. The little things in early recovery can make all the difference.
- Helping someone out with something like a bus pass, a ride to a 12-step meeting, or even information about a scholarship program can help kick-start a successful road of recovery.
Getting Help Today
A significant issue for people in early recovery is a lack of support after completing a drug treatment program. There is a real need for more options for people who need help with addiction. Fortunately, many treatment centers have payment plan options or people who work hard to get insurance to cover care. Other organizations offer assistance in the form of scholarships.
While Lighthouse Recovery Institute is not a state-funded recovery program, we may be able to help. Our personal and individualized contributions to the recovery community go a long way. Contact us today to learn more about our affordable recovery programs and how we can help you fund your recovery.
