How And Why Non Profit Drug Rehab Centers Don’t Actually Mean Free

Barriers to addiction recovery usually boil down to two issues, a willingness to get help and finding a way to pay for it. There are more choices out there for recovery than at any other time in our history. For those who have no health insurance and who can’t necessarily take time off from work to get help, options are more limited.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are more than 14,500 substance abuse recovery centers in the United States. They’re divided into three types of facility, free public health services, private rehab, and non-profit drug rehab centers. People often assume that not-for-profit means free, but that’s misleading.

What is Non-Profit Rehab?

Not-for-profit organizations are incorporated in the interest of the public good rather than for the sole purpose of making money. Non-profits bring in revenue to cover staff salaries and operating expenses through:

* Government and private grants
* Fundraising efforts
* Private donations
* Patient fees and services

Non-profits are still allowed to make a profit. By law, any revenue must be reinvested into the program for things expansion or upgrading services. They may also enjoy tax-exempt status and receive other benefits so long as they maintain their original mission and follow the state and federal guidelines for non-profit corporations.

These treatment centers aren’t the same as government-funded substance abuse facilities, which are often free or low cost for participants. Many non-profit rehabs are begun by persons who’ve been personally affected by substance abuse in some way. They are either in recovery themselves or have lost a loved one to drug addiction. Others are run by charities or religious organizations and take a faith-based approach to treatment. However, they are also one of the more expensive treatment options since many don’t take insurance. That means nearly the entire cost of rehab is born by the person receiving treatment or their family.

Why is Drug Rehab So Expensive?

Everyone deserves access to treatment, but getting clean doesn’t come cheap. Substance abuse recovery is a $19 billion a year industry. Why does it cost so much to get help?

Let’s get this out of the way first: low cost or free care doesn’t necessarily mean substandard care. It can, however, mean less personal care. Like most things in life, the more perks and amenities you get, the more you or your insurer are going to pay for them. Price can also be affected by whether you’re entering inpatient or outpatient treatment, seeking long-term or short-term assistance, and the type of facility. You’re paying for more than just bed space. The cost of rehab also includes:

Expert staff

Many private or non-profit facilities try to hire the most qualified and experienced medical personnel and support staff. Getting the best takes money, but it’s an investment in patient wellness.

Private counseling

Most programs offer group counseling, which is a good way to increase your support network and gain perspective. However, most people in recovery have additional mental health issues that may be related to their addiction or form the foundation of it through attempts at self-medication. There may also be issues like domestic abuse. All of these problems require more intensive, one-on-one counseling. Qualified therapists cost money.

Perks and amenities

Many other elements of rehab that are not directly related to treatment still add to the cost. There are overhead expenses to keep the facility safe and comfortable, grounds and facility maintenance, the cost of providing meals, the cost of medications and rehabilitation equipment, and upkeep for amenities like swimming pools or workout facilities. Programs may also provide supplementary services and activities like group outings, guest speakers, and special events. All of these benefits add to the bottom line.

Is the Treatment Just as Good as Private Rehab?

Not-for-profit drug rehab shares many of the benefits of private for-profit facilities; some are even more luxurious. It depends on the organization. There are some big-name non-profit facilities that are frequented by the rich and famous. Waiting lists can be long to enter such facilities. You’re likely to find more personalized treatment at a non-profit center than at public facilities, which still tend to offer one-size service. This may include holistic healing and services that are based in alternative treatment methods. Like most drug rehab, you’ll find inpatient and outpatient services as well as ongoing mental health and maintenance support.

How Do You Qualify to Enter Non-Profit Treatment Facilities?

The first step is to locate a non-profit treatment center in your area. There are hundreds of non-profit rehab facilities, and more programs are opening every day. Investigate a few before you select one to find a rehab that a good match for you. If there is a long waiting list for entering a treatment center, consider a 12-step program to get into a sober mindset and have some support while you wait. Once you’ve selected a treatment option, the steps are similar to what you might find at a private or public facility:

• An intake assessment to determine the severity of your substance use and decide on a course of treatment
• Discussion about payment options
• Deciding whether you will enter residential treatment or intensive outpatient treatment

The length of treatment will depend in part on the length and severity of your substance use and your progress while you’re in the program. Most rehab facilities offer 30, 60, or 90-day programs. Before entering into any treatment, make sure your goals and reasons for wanted to get clean are clear, and choose a program that meshes with your lifestyle, personality, and budget or level of insurance coverage. Whichever option is best for your circumstances, taking decisive today action is the first step toward a new life.

The cost of drug or alcohol treatment shouldn’t stop you or a loved one from getting help. There are many programs in place to pay for all or part of your rehab, and many private facilities will try to work with you. If you’re ready to change your life, we’re here to show you how. Call 866-754-9113 to get the process started today.