How Much Does Rehab Cost Without Insurance?

If you or a loved one struggles with drug addiction (also called substance use disorder), it’s important to seek help at a drug rehab center. 

Many people use their health insurance plans to pay for addiction treatment. If you can’t or don’t want to, you’re probably curious about the cost of rehab.

How Much Does Rehab Cost Without Insurance?

The cost of addiction treatment varies depending on numerous factors, namely the type of treatment program, treatment services provided, length of treatment, and amenities. 

Type Of Treatment Program

There are four main types of substance abuse treatment programs: inpatient treatment programs, partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient treatment programs.

Inpatient treatment (also called residential treatment) involves living at a rehab facility so you can receive 24/7 care and supervision. It’s often the most expensive option, ranging from about $200 to $900 per day. 

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is outpatient, meaning you live at home while regularly attending a treatment center. Most people attend PHPs at least five days a week. As the most intensive form of outpatient care, a PHP typically costs $350 to $450 per day.

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is slightly less intensive than a PHP. Most people attend these programs about three days a week. Prices generally range between $250 and $350 per day. 

An outpatient rehab program is the least intensive form of addiction treatment. It often involves only one day of treatment per week. It usually costs between $150 and $250 per day.

Treatment Services Provided

Addiction treatment programs offer a variety of different services, including:

• medical detox, where doctors help you slowly and safely stop using drugs
• medication-assisted treatment, where doctors prescribe medications to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid, alcohol, or nicotine addiction 
• therapy, where you can strengthen your mental health, identify triggers for drug abuse, and develop healthy coping skills

Usually, the more services a program provides, the more expensive it is.

Length Of Treatment

Most addiction rehab programs last either 30, 60, or 90 days. However, some programs are shorter or longer depending on your needs. In general, longer programs cost more than shorter programs. 

Amenities

Some rehab centers offer special amenities such as private rooms, gyms, and swimming pools. In most cases, a rehab center with lots of amenities costs more than a rehab center with little to no amenities. 

Payment Options

Even without insurance, you don’t have to pay full price for addiction treatment. Instead, you can look to other financing options, such as:

Payment Plans 

Before choosing a treatment center, ask about payment plans. Many centers will let you make low-cost, monthly payments instead of paying all at once. 

Sliding Scale Fees

Many treatment facilities also offer sliding scale fees, which are based on your ability to pay. In other words, people with lower incomes pay lower prices.

Scholarships

Some organizations offer scholarships to people who need addiction treatment but can’t afford it. One popular example is the 10,000 Beds Scholarship Program. 

Loans

You could pay for treatment using a loan from a bank or a loved one, or you could use a credit card. There are some bank loans and credit cards that are designed specifically for healthcare expenses, including addiction treatment. They usually have deferred interest rates. 

No matter which option you choose, make sure you’ll be able to pay back the loan on time and with minimal interest. 

Other Substance Abuse Treatment Options

If you’re still not whether you can afford treatment, consider a cheaper level of care.

State-Funded Treatment

For example, most states fund free or low-cost addiction recovery programs. To attend one, you’ll likely need to verify your income and need for treatment.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA) maintains a directory of people to contact if you’re interested in this option.

Support Groups

You could also start attending a free support group. While these groups don’t offer professional medical advice, they connect you with people who can share their own recovery experiences and coping strategies. Popular groups include:

• 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous
• SMART Recovery
• Women for Sobriety

To learn more about substance abuse treatment options and the cost of treatment, please reach out to an Ark Behavioral Health specialist today.