Answer: HCSC provides coverage for a vast array of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment types. Coverage levels will differ between treatment options.
When you enroll in an addiction treatment program, you may receive a combination of treatment services or seek a particular type of treatment based on your needs.
Keep reading to learn about the coverage you may receive as well as short descriptions of the most common addiction rehab services.
Medical Detox
Medical detoxification is covered by many HCSC health insurance plans, but you may be responsible for a copay or coinsurance depending on your plan.
Medical detox is a service often offered at the beginning of treatment to prepare an individual for their treatment program. This service helps rid the body of addictive substances, manage withdrawal symptoms, monitor vitals, and administer medications as needed.
Because detoxing at home can be incredibly dangerous, it is recommended to receive medical detox in a licensed facility to prevent emergency medical situations.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
HCSC health insurance plans may cover medication-assisted treatment, also known as MAT. Like detox services, you may be required to pay a copay per visit or coinsurance for the total treatment program price.
MAT is a service that relies on FDA-approved medications to treat substance abuse. These medications work by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings as well as reducing the risk of relapse.
Over time, you will be slowly tapered off the medication, but many people continue MAT for an extended period of time.
Inpatient Rehab
Inpatient rehab is covered by many HCSC plans. Depending on your plan, you may pay coinsurance or a flat fee per day.
Inpatient treatment, sometimes called residential treatment, is a widely known treatment service that involves round-the-clock care in a designated treatment facility where individuals live for the duration of their treatment. It is considered to be the most intensive treatment option, as it is very structured.
You can expect to take part in several treatment services during an inpatient program. You will likely have a set schedule for each day to ensure you receive comprehensive treatment.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
HCSC plans will also cover dual diagnosis treatment at least partially. Much like the services above, you will most likely have to pay a copay or coinsurance depending on your plan.
Dual diagnosis treatment offers behavioral health services and mental health treatment alongside the physical health aspect of addiction. Many people with addictions also have mental illnesses, known as co-occurring disorders, which can be the catalyst for addiction.
In a dual diagnosis program, your care team will treat your mental health conditions alongside your addiction to offer a broad-spectrum treatment approach. This often involves therapy and counseling.
Outpatient Treatment Programs
Outpatient treatment programs are covered by many HCSC health insurance plans. Most plans will require a copay for each office visit or coinsurance for the overall cost.
Offering a slightly lower level of care than inpatient treatment, outpatient rehab is a well-structured treatment approach, but it doesn’t require participants to live in a rehab facility. Instead, individuals travel to a care center several days a week for several hours.
Outpatient treatment also comes in different varieties such as partial hospitalization programs (PHP) or intensive outpatient programs (IOP).
Counseling & Behavioral Therapy
HCSC plans often cover counseling and behavioral therapy with a copay for each session, though this will differ between plans.
Counseling services are offered in both individual and group settings. Essentially, counseling is an opportunity to discuss your feelings, thoughts, goals, and concerns about addiction and addiction treatment.
On the other hand, behavioral therapy is a specific kind of talk therapy that focuses on behavioral patterns.
Behavioral therapy is often used for people with mental health disorders working to change their thought patterns. You may encounter dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) if you try behavioral therapy.
Continuing Care
Some continuing care services may be covered by HCSC plans. This will depend on your plan. You can expect to pay a copay or coinsurance if coverage is offered.
Continuing care, also known as aftercare, is the care you receive after completing your treatment program. Whether that be inpatient or outpatient, you and your provider will determine what services may be beneficial as you transition back to day-to-day life.
Some services, like therapy or counseling, will be covered as outlined above. On the other hand, some may not have a cost, like 12-step programs, and others may not be covered entirely. Check your summary of benefits or talk with a representative from HCSC to be sure.
