Blue Cross Blue Shield: Addiction Treatment Coverage
You are here:Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance (BCBS) is one of the nation’s top health insurance providers. The BCBS Association owns 36 independent and locally operated health insurance companies across the US. More than 17,000 people have used BCBS to receive addiction treatment coverage since 2020.
Many addiction treatment facilities are in-network with BCBS, including Design for Change Recovery. This means that we consistently meet stringent standards in client care and safety to qualify for in-network status.
For your convenience, we’ve provided answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding BCBS insurance coverage for addiction treatment. Contact BCBS directly if you have other questions about coverage for rehab that weren’t included here.
Addiction Treatment Coverage Provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield
BCBS covers drug and alcohol rehab and is accepted at many treatment facilities. However, coverage varies from state to state and depends on your BCBS insurance plan. In general, your BCBS plan will determine the type of treatment center you choose. It will also determine the type of professionals who treat you.
Typically, only a portion of detox and rehab are covered by any insurance, so you should be prepared to pay some of the costs out of pocket.
Design for Change Recovery will verify your insurance and work with BCBS to help you get the highest level of treatment for your needs. Or, you can verify your insurance by filling out our convenient online form or using the BCBS website to search for facilities near you that accept BCBS insurance.
Does BCBS Insurance Cover Inpatient Rehab?
Generally, Blue Cross Blue Shield provides coverage for different types of inpatient addiction treatment programs. Inpatient rehab is recommended because it provides a secure environment where clients are protected from triggers and temptation.
Addiction treatment coverage for inpatient rehab may include specialized programs such as gender-specific or dual-diagnosis treatment. Dual diagnosis refers to people suffering from both substance abuse and mental health disorders. To ensure positive recovery outcomes, treatment for co-occurring disorders is essential.
Does BCBS Addiction Treatment Coverage Include Intensive Outpatient Rehab?
BCBS does not typically offer outpatient addiction treatment coverage. Although intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are effective, they are best suited for people who do not have medical issues stemming from drug use. Furthermore, IOPs are for individuals who have a supportive living environment and obligations like work or child care to maintain.
How Long Does BCBS Insurance Cover Rehab?
The length of time BCBS will cover addiction treatment depends on your specific health care plan and behavioral health benefits. The length of time a person spends in rehab is also contingent on the level of care and type of program recommended.
Follow these steps to determine if your Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance plan covers addiction treatment:
- Review your insurance plan online or from the documentation you received from BCBS.
- Reach out to BCBS by phone to speak with a representative about your coverage.
- Call Design for Change Recovery to verify your benefits with one of our treatment advisors.
You can also visit our Insurance FAQ page to learn more about addiction treatment coverage.
How Much Does BCBS Cover for Addiction Treatment?
The amount of treatment BCBS will cover is determined by various factors. Design for Change Recovery will contact your insurer to find out what your options are regarding the cost and level of treatment available to you.
BCBS may cover treatment fully or partially depending on your plan, deductibles, or whether you must pay coinsurance. The different BCBS tiered plans are bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. Bronze plans are lower in cost than the other plans, while platinum plans are highest in cost. Similarly, the amount of addiction treatment coverage provided will be low or high depending on the plan. For instance:
- Bronze – Covers about 60% of medical costs, with a low monthly premium and a high deductible.
- Silver – Covers about 70% of medical costs, with a higher premium and lower deductible.
- Gold – This level pays about 80% of medical costs, also with a higher monthly payment and low deductible.
- Platinum – Covers about 90% of medical costs, with the highest monthly premium and lowest deductible. However, some states do not offer the platinum category.
BCBS seeks to provide treatment and resources for individuals who need addiction treatment. They work with medical professionals, pharmacists, community groups, and treatment facilities to ensure effective addiction treatment coverage for individuals with substance use disorders.
Does BCBS Insurance Cover Suboxone Treatment?
Suboxone treatment is utilized in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to decrease the severity of withdrawal symptoms during detox. It also negates the effects of opioids by preventing the activation of pain receptors. A combination of buprenorphine and naloxone is used to make Suboxone. These drugs are typically used to treat opioid addiction.
Many suboxone doctors or treatment facilities that offer MAT are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield. However, BCBS coverage for Suboxone treatment varies by location, your insurance plan, and more.
BCBS Addiction Treatment Coverage at Design for Change
Design for Change will provide all essential information about insurance and financial responsibilities upfront to eliminate any misunderstanding or confusion about the cost of treatment. Our admissions team will work with your insurance provider to get the quality care you need and reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Contact our Lancaster, CA facility today to speak with our insurance specialists about your insurance treatment coverage. We are here to make sure you receive the best treatment possible with customized plans administered by compassionate professionals.
Sources:
bcbsm.com/ – What’s the Difference Between Bronze, Silver, and Gold Plans?
bcbs.com/SURC – Supporting Your Journey to Recovery