The Devastating Effects of Alcohol Abuse
According to the 2013 edition of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 16.6 million adults in the United States reported suffering from an alcohol use disorder (AUD) that year. Of that 16.6 million, only 7.8 percent – a mere 1.3 million adults – actually received the specialized treatment they so desperately needed. Perhaps even more frightening is the estimated 697,000 teens aged 12-17 who also reported having an AUD. These adolescents have their entire lives in front of them, but their future is at risk due to the excessive and compulsive consumption of alcohol.
If you or a loved one is abusing alcohol, recovery is possible. The first step is examining what your PPO alcohol rehab coverage has to offer.
Finding Coverage for Your Recovery
Alcohol abuse is best tackled with the help of seasoned, specialized health care professionals who know how to help patients manage the many facets involved with an addiction. There are psychological, behavioral, and biological components that all need to be addressed, and finding coverage for some extensive treatment isn’t always easy. Most rehabilitation facilities have some sort of financial advisor on staff who can help you evaluate your PPO alcohol rehab coverage.
PPO, or “Preferred Provider Organization,” is a type of insurance wherein the patient has considerably more control over the doctors and facilities they choose, especially when compared to plans under the HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) umbrella. While HMOs may have lower cost or a small deductible, every referral for a specialist – including addiction specialists – must come from a primary care physician (PCP). Conversely, patients with PPO insurance policies have much more flexibility and can book appointments with a specialist – even out of network – without having to see a PCP first. As a result, PPO policies tend to come with higher premiums and deductibles.
Covering Your Alcohol Detox Using PPO Alcohol Rehab Coverage
PPO alcohol rehab coverage may or may not exist as part of your current plan. Even if there is coverage, it may not be comprehensive. It’s important to know what facilities, physicians, and treatment approaches will be covered before you actually begin your rehabilitation so that you aren’t left with an unpleasant surprise when the bills start arriving. You can also pay out of pocket to cover therapy you deem to be important but that may not be covered by insurance. Regardless of the total cost on paper, rehab and recovery are priceless.