Traditional alcohol treatment programs consist of residential or inpatient programs, typically with a duration of 28 days. However, these programs have changed significantly in the last few decades. Modern alcohol treatment programs include a greater variety of settings, providing patients with more flexibility in integrating the program into their normal lives. These alcohol treatment programs primarily include outpatient, hospital and continuing care programs.
Overview
Aetna alcohol rehab coverage includes a range of specific programs that have been screened for several criteria such as adherence to modern treatments standards, quality of care and excellent follow-up. Alcohol treatment programs that aren’t in Aetna’s network may not have been screened for these criteria. They’re also more expensive in many cases.
Outpatient Treatment
An outpatient alcohol treatment program typically meets in the evenings, allowing patients to continue working and other daily activities. Each session usually lasts for several hours, with three to five sessions per week. Patients in these alcohol treatment programs will experience their usual triggers and stressors for drinking during this program. Group participation is generally part of an outpatient program.
Hospital Treatment
Aetna alcohol rehab coverage in a hospital setting typically consists of up to eight hours of treatment per day, while allowing patients to return home each evening. These programs may include participation in a traditional self-help group such as AA. The primary advantage of hospital treatment is that it provides patients with greater support than outpatient treatment.
Continuing Care
Aetna alcohol rehab coverage also includes continuing care programs. These support programs typically include weekly group meetings, although some participants also receive individual therapy at the same time. In addition, participants in continuing care programs often organize social activities.
Tips
Several tips can help you choose the best Aetna alcohol rehab coverage for a loved one.
Check residential programs for outpatient options such as intensive programming and partial hospitalization. These programs allow patients to receive treatment support as they gradually assume greater responsibility over their lives.
Ensure that the treatment program provides medication as needed for each individual patient. The medications most commonly used in alcohol treatment programs include Antabuse, Campral, Subutex and Vivitrol. Psychiatric treatment should also be available for patients with mental illnesses such as severe mood disorders or major depression.
Look for local programs. Alcohol treatment programs are typically more effective when they’re close to the patient’s residence. This arrangement allows patients to build a support network from their friends and family members.