By Robert Lien, MHA
Searching for a rehab in Los Angeles can be an overwhelming task. There are many options and different types of rehab facilities. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment, and rehab facilities can vary greatly. Searching online for “rehab” can yield millions of results in the blink of an eye. How do you know which one is best for you?
- One of the first criteria to evaluate is the level of care and the hours of service each day and week. While some people may require a 24-hour a day rehab most people do not. Finding a rehab that could fit into your daily schedule regarding work or family can be challenging. That is why Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) offer a variety of schedules. Choosing the correct level of care can be determined by an evaluation and assessment. By asking questions about a person’s past and current, medical, psychological and substance use the assessment can help determine a starting point for level of care. It should be noted that the level of care may change as the treatment begins as the clinical staff get to better know the client and their condition.
- Another important criteria in choosing a rehab is the cost. Many rehab facilities today can utilize insurance benefits that may help reduce the cost or cover the cost entirely. Insurance reimbursement or payment is based on a medical necessity criteria. For example, if someone does not require a medical detox the insurance will not agree to pay for a detox rehab. So once again the level of care or the rehab type of facility is very important to match what your insurance will approve to pay for. Insurance benefits may vary from companies like Cigna, Aetna, United Healthcare as well as Blue Cross Blue Shield. It is important to get accurate information before committing to a rehab facility so there not be any surprise out-of-pocket costs and that you may maximize your insurance benefits.
- When choosing a rehab in Los Angeles it is also important to understand the services the rehab facility offers. Not all rehabs offer the same services and there may be medical doctors, psychiatrist, therapist, nutritionist, EMDR specialist all under one roof or the facility may offer limited services but have resources to refer clients for individualized services. Additionally, not all rehab programs treat the same conditions or diagnoses. For example, someone struggling with alcohol addiction may not be a fit for a rehab that specializes in Bipolar disorder. Many rehabs today offer treatment for mental health and addiction so it is good to ask questions about what is the focus of the rehab program. It is important to ask questions regarding the individualized providers the rehab offers and if there will be any additional fees for those individualized providers.
Each person seeking a rehab may have different needs so take time to ask questions. At CAST Centers we are here to help with your questions and to also make sure you are making an informed decision when choosing a rehab facility.
