The Cost of Detox and How Uninsured Addicts Get Help

Getting Help With Addiction

While most addicts may be well versed when it comes to getting high on their drug of choice, chances are there are some who are unaware of the price of detox- and what it takes to get there. It's a well known fact that drug use is rampant among the nation's poor, with many having no insurance and no way to get help. There are also many addicts who believe this to be true, even though they have Medicaid coverage. This is why it is important that individuals learn what detox is, how much it costs and how to get there- regardless of who they are, or what their insurance status is. Otherwise getting high won't be just a problem, but an epidemic.

Defining Detox

Detox is a three to five day inpatient stay at a hospital or other facility licensed to supervise individuals coming down from their drug use. While it normally consists of the addict getting rest, it can also be a period of medication. Some drug addicts can't do it alone, and require medical attention and medication to avoid difficult withdrawals. This is normally the case with opiates, however there are other drugs which should be monitored while detoxing out of the system. Unfortunately some addicts are unaware that they could be taking advantage of these services even if there is no money to help. Many programs allow patients with no insurance, while others take only the most prominent insurance coverage.

How Detox is Paid For

Detox can be paid for with Medicaid, and other insurance coverage. Addicts who find themselves unable to pay, with no insurance can go to their nearest hospital to seek attention. Going into the ER while having withdrawals can get those into detox if there is one in the hospital. Not all hospitals have detox programs. Like any other ailment, the addict will be able to pay at a later date.

Getting Help When You Can't Pay

Another way of getting into detox is by going into a community center, letting counselors know your plight. If you are unemployed, they will attempt to send you to detox under some sort of government funded program. This way detox will be free.

Medicaid Recipients

Medicaid pays for detox. While the government will pay hundreds of dollars for your care, you will not pay anything. Normally Medicaid patients only stay three days in detox. However, it definitely beats not being able to stay at all.

Using Private Insurance

Most private insurance companies will pay for detox. There may be a copay of a hundred or so dollars, but it's well worth getting clean. Paying cash will go into the thousands, so a hundred dollars is really fair.

Get Help Now

No matter what kind of insurance you have, or if you have none at all- you can get help for drug addiction. Detox is a great first step, regardless of what kind of drug is being used, or how long an addict has been getting high. There are programs in place for the poor who can't pay, as well as those who can't afford their copay which goes with their insurance. So, if you are a drug addict, the bottom line is- don't worry about how much detox cost. This is your life- go out and get help now.