Does VA Insurance Cover Addiction Treatment?

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, often referred to as the VA, addiction treatment is available for military veterans. In fact, VA benefits may include insurance coverage for medications, counseling, and other treatment options for substance abuse and addiction.

VA healthcare benefits may provide substance use treatment and mental health services. Those who participate in military service may experience extreme stressors, leading to severe mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Those with VA insurance may receive assistance. However, if you have other types of health insurance, it can be combined to give you further assistance and other medical care options.

Types Of Drug Addiction Treatment Covered By VA Insurance

While VA insurance covers addiction treatment, you must first determine your eligibility. Learn more about the terms associated with your VA insurance policy or speak with your local VA hospital.

There are numerous treatment services available for veterans struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, some of which may be covered by your VA insurance plan. 

Medical Detoxification

At a rehab center, one of the first forms of treatment required may be medical detoxification. Detox is a process in which the body is depleted of the dangerous toxins brought on by drug or alcohol use. 

The body is then replenished and nourished with the assistance of healthcare professionals. Check your policy, as well as your desired rehab center, to learn about detox benefits.

Inpatient Or Outpatient Treatment

Many drug and alcohol rehab centers provide inpatient and outpatient treatment. With inpatient treatment, you will remain on-site at the facility.

Inpatient care allows you to have 24/7 access to the medications you might need as well as a team of staff members to assist you. As an inpatient, you will participate in designated activities and therapy options. 

Those with co-occurring disorders such as a substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health disorder may require extensive residential treatment.

Those seeking more flexibility at a treatment center may consider outpatient care. As an outpatient, you will be required to visit the treatment facility at various, scheduled times throughout the week.

Treatment options may include wellness practices and various types of therapy.

Therapy

Inpatient and outpatient care can both provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Psychotherapy can be used as part of a treatment program.

This treatment option may be available at the VA facility you select. Your loved ones may also participate in therapy with you such as family therapy or certain forms of group therapy.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

In some cases, medication-assisted treatment options may be covered for veterans dealing with alcohol or opioid use disorders. This type of treatment reduces dependence and decreases the risk of relapse by combining therapy with FDA-approved medications.

Does VA Insurance Cover Mental Health Treatment?

In addition to insurance for drug addiction, vet insurance may also cover mental health disorders such as PTSD or depression. 

Speak with your insurance provider to determine the cost of mental health care, your eligibility for insurance plans, and if the treatment facility is in-network for you.

Other Types Of Health Insurance

There are other types of non-VA insurance benefits which you can utilize. Contact your healthcare provider to learn more about your options or receive a referral.

Private Health Insurance

If you have private insurance, it may be used for drug abuse treatment and mental health conditions. Research your insurance plan to determine if your cost of treatment requires a copay or deductible.

Medicare & Medicaid

Even if you have VA benefits, consider enrolling in Medicare once you turn 65. This federal program offers health insurance to those who qualify.

Medicaid is a form of insurance designed to assist those who are low-income. Speak with the VA hospital to determine if they accept Medicaid as a payment option in addition to regular VA benefits.

Tricare

Active-duty or retired service members and their families may be eligible for Tricare. Tricare is a private health benefit option for you which can cover substance abuse and mental health treatment.

If you or a family member require substance abuse treatment, reach out to Ark Behavioral Health. At our network of treatment centers, we provide a wide range of treatment options for you to consider.

Learn more about our treatment plans today.