Cost of Methadone Treatment

With an opioid crisis in full swing all over North America, it’s becoming more and more important to invest in harm-reduction techniques to better help people with opioid addictions. One of the most cost-efficient treatments for opioid addiction is methadone, but there is a lot of stigma and many misconceptions about this synthetic opioid. Methadone activates the opioid receptors in the brain the same as prescription and illicit opioids, but at a therapeutic dose of a part of a medically-supervised treatment program, it does not create a “high”. It works by reducing cravings for opioids and minimizing withdrawal symptoms. The cost of any addiction treatment varies based on several factors, including location, duration and treatment type, as well as insurance coverage. When it comes to the cost of methadone treatments, the same rule applies. There are three types of treatment for opioid addiction that use a medication-assisted model with methadone: During inpatient treatment, the client lives on the premises at the facility and gets full-time assistance while overcoming their addiction. Because the care is 24-hours and space can be limited at facilities offering inpatient care, this treatment tends to be the most expensive option. The cost of inpatient treatment includes the amenities available to clients at the facility, the staff that provides 24/7 supervision and the assessments and consultations that become necessary as treatment progresses. Costs of residential treatment lasting between 60 and 90 days can vary, and luxury rehabilitation centers generally cost much more. Instead of staying at the facility full-time, patients getting outpatient treatment only need to be at the facility part-time for treatment and are able to live their lives as normal the rest of the time. Because outpatient treatment requires fewer resources, it is often cheaper in the long run. There are a couple of different types of outpatient treatment available including intensive outpatient programs which are therapy-based and medication-assisted treatment which is a combination of medication and substance use counseling. Like inpatient treatment, the costs for these programs vary, particularly when looking at utilizing commercial insurance options or grant funding to cover the cost of treatment. However, outpatient treatment generally costs less than inpatient treatment because the client is simply expected to show up for daily appointments during the day to receive treatment. Medication-assisted treatment is commonly thought to be the most affordable and most effective option for opioid addiction specifically. Another form of outpatient treatment, office-based treatment offers medication and often counseling as a part of the treatment program. The fees here must consider staff salaries and the cost of counseling, but do not include medication because in an office-based treatment center, the medications are prescribed rather than dispensed on-site. Buprenorphine and Suboxone, but not methadone, are options at these types of programs. Cost of Methadone Versus Buprenorphine and Naltrexone Methadone treatments are some of the most affordable medication-assisted treatment options available today. Some people may not have the luxury of choosing an opioid addiction treatment based on anything but cost, so it’s crucial to understand how much the prices vary between methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone. The following estimates are according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse: The study in the Drug and Alcohol Dependence journal found the costs of buprenorphine and naltrexone alone can range from $257 to $384 per dose, respectively. In comparison, the cost of a single dose of methadone averages to approximately $84. These figures are estimates, and do not take into account Medicaid or commercial insurance coverage, grant programs, sliding fee scales or other options for making treatment affordable. To find the best option for you, contact a local treatment provider and ask for assistance. There are many reasons for the cost discrepancy between medications: Despite the differences, methadone is often considered the better option because it is cost-effective and must be administered in a certified environment by trained professionals, and treatment is monitored throughout. It’s also the treatment method that many find easiest to afford. Even though it’s the least expensive option, the cost of methadone can still hinder people from seeking treatment, especially if their insurance doesn’t cover the cost of treatment. It’s always best to check with the individual insurance provider to see what is and isn’t covered in terms of opioid addiction treatment. Some questions to ask an insurance provider regarding addiction treatment include: The answers to those questions can help clients make well-rounded decisions regarding their treatment options, and private insurances allow for a broader set of options in terms of which facilities can be used and which type of treatments can be received. People who qualify for public insurance, like Medicare or Medicaid, may be able to get coverage. It’s important to see what mental health and addiction treatments are covered, though, and to make sure the facility you are considered for treatment accepts these types of insurance. Methadone treatment costs can also be covered by facilities that are partially or fully subsidized by government funding. Research is necessary here as well since some of these clinics have guidelines for annual income, so it’s always best to double-check the qualifications. While free methadone clinics are uncommon, there are many ways for people to receive treatment if they don’t have insurance or aren’t qualified for public insurance. The aforementioned subsidized facilities are one option, but there are many other ways to receive treatment. Many treatment facilities offer ways to help clients receive the treatments they need, so it’s always useful to ask the facility you are considering whether they can help you afford the treatment. Some financial aid options include: It can seem stressful to find the money to pay for treatment — either your own or for a loved one — but the cost will likely be less than the overall cost of funding an opioid addiction. Knowing what is included in the cost of treatment is crucial, especially when deciding which facility or program is best suited to the client. Generally, treatment costs in a medication-assisted treatment program cover: Before a person begins their treatment, they are required to go through admission and intake procedures. This allows the staff at the treatment facility to get a better idea of a person’s health and medical history. BAART Programs has a comprehensive admission and intake process, which is included in methadone maintenance treatment costs. It can take a few hours to complete and consists of: BAART Programs also provides ongoing education on addiction, treatment, relapse and medical issues, such as HIV. Random drug screenings and breathalyzers are also administered to keep in line with federal regulations. If you or your loved one is ready to begin recovery from opioid addiction, see if using medication-assisted treatment is an option. BAART Programs offers quality outpatient treatment in 29 locations over six states, as well as partner programs nationwide. We believe that people can change their lives for the better, and we are determined to help. For more information about the treatments offered, contact us by calling 844-341-4040 and begin your recovery journey today.How Much Does Methadone Treatment Cost?
1. Inpatient Treatment
2. Outpatient Treatment
3. Clinic and Office-Based Treatments
Is Methadone Treatment Covered by Insurance?
Cost of Treatment Without Insurance
What Does the Cost of Methadone Treatment Cover?
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