Drug and alcohol addiction is growing at alarming rates. Millions of people in the US are addicted to some form of drug or alcohol, and many refuse treatment. More than 20 million people suffering from addiction are not only harming themselves, but they have put their families through very distressing times, lost their jobs, and children. 

There are several reasons people refuse to seek treatment for their addiction. When a person is addicted to alcohol or drugs, they are considered “actively addicted.” At this point, they do not believe they need treatment because they don’t feel they have a problem. Approximately 96% of people suffering from addiction do not think they need treatment. 

Another reason people struggling with addiction do not seek treatment is a shame. Addicted individuals often feel that their addiction is a disgrace to themselves and their families. They may think that they have ruined their lives and are not worthy of help. Another reason is fear. The fear can be just from thinking about going to rehab in the first place, or they might be afraid they will fail and let everyone down again. 

Still, others may feel they cannot afford treatment. When insurance helps to pay some of the costs of these services, people are more apt to seek treatment. The information below for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama contains useful information about their drug rehab coverage.?

What are some of the Signs That You May Need Rehab?

Are you worried that your alcohol or drug use may be severe? Perhaps you are not sure that what you are experiencing is an indication that you need rehab. There are a few signs that you can look for that will tell you that you or someone you care about needs to seek help from a professional rehab center. 

1. Often, people with severe addiction problems isolate themselves from their family and friends. Alcohol or drugs become more important in their life.

2. Using drugs or alcohol becomes a crutch to help you feel that you fit in and that others love and accept you.

3. Missing work repeatedly, poor performance while you are at work, or quitting your job altogether is another sign.

4. Behaving in a way that you would not normally do, such as getting in trouble with the police or driving while high or intoxicated, can mean you need help.

5. Feelings of guilt and shame because of using drugs or alcohol is yet another sign.

These behaviors and feelings should not be ignored. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama may cover you. If so, you may only have to pay part of your rehab, or you may not have to pay anything. 

Alabama Blue Cross Blue Shield History

Originally called Hospital Service Corporation when it was founded in 1936, the company was renamed Blue Cross-Blue Shield of Alabama in 1952. In 1970, it became Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama. Operating as a nonprofit health insurance company, their company headquarters is in Birmingham, Alabama, and more than 106 million people in the US are provided coverage by this company. 

Is Drug & Alcohol Rehab Covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama?

Clients of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama are covered when seeking treatment for substance addiction. Several plans are ranging from the platinum level to the bronze level. Each varies in the amount of the premiums and co-pays that are paid for out-of-pocket. 

The co-pays may vary according to whether the client stays in or goes out of the network. It also depends on whether the treatments are inpatient or outpatient. Some plans, such as the HSA Bronze HDHP/PPO plan does not charge a co-pay for inpatient or outpatient services, but out-of-network providers are not covered. 

How Does Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama Work?

If you or a loved one are planning to enter rehab, you should check with your Blue Cross Blue Shield representative, so you will know exactly what type of coverage you have. Most require a doctor’s order (basically a prescription for the treatment) before receiving treatment. A diagnosis should be made. Your Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance covers this. Once the best type of rehab for the situation should be chosen, some detox treatments can require the supervision of a physician or other medical professional. Blue Cross generally covers this.

How Does Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment Differ?

Alcohol and drug treatment programs are usually either inpatient or outpatient. Rehabilitation is the focus of both types, and there are benefits for each one. Inpatient may be a good option for people suffering from a serious addiction who need intensive treatments in a controlled setting. 

Outpatient rehabs allow the recovering client to remain at home and continue to work or go to school while receiving treatment. There are a few other differences between inpatient and outpatient rehabs such as:

  • Outpatient treatment typically lasts somewhat longer than inpatient treatment.
  • Outpatient treatment is a good option for clients who have been through detox and can control their exposure to alcohol or drugs. 
  • Clients generally attend weekly meetings when undergoing outpatient treatment.
  • The recovering clients are still held accountable for their actions during outpatient treatment.

Inpatient treatment is an excellent choice for clients that may have trouble removing themselves from situations that contribute to substance abuse.

  • Most inpatient treatments are from 30 to 90 days.
  • Medical assistance is available during inpatient treatment. 
  • Therapy sessions are available daily for clients who choose inpatient care. 

Each situation is different, and people suffering from addiction should weigh all their options before choosing which type of treatment program is best for them. 

What is Detox?

When someone is suffering from alcohol or drug addiction, their body develops a chemical dependence on substances. If it is drug addiction, there are different substances present, and this affects the seriousness of the addiction and how long it takes to rid the body of that particular substance. 

During rehab, clients must stop using drugs or alcohol, and there will likely be withdrawal symptoms. Some patients may experience severe symptoms that require a physician to prescribe medicine to ensure their safety by easing the symptoms. Some of the symptoms most frequently experienced include shakes, muscle aches, headaches, irritability, depression, agitation, problems breathing, chest pain, and nausea. 

Why is Rehab Coverage So Important?

Drug or alcohol addiction is a progressive disease that can lead to death. Dependence can also increase the risk of contracting other diseases such as HIV or AIDS. Families have often torn apart due to addiction, and many people lose their homes, jobs, and financial stability. Before a lot was known about how drugs or alcohol affects the brain, it was thought that people who became addicted were just weak and could stop if they wanted to. However, studies and research have shown that addiction affects the brain’s frontal cortex. 

Insurance makes it possible for people suffering from addiction and their families to find the best type of rehab without the added stress of how they are going to afford treatment. Since many plans cover either the entire cost or a large portion of the cost of the treatment, patients can concentrate on getting better and focus on the future. 

If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction to drugs or alcohol, it is time to get help and get your life back on track. Talk to a representative of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama about your policy today and see how they can help you get on the road to recovery.