Are There Free Detox Centers Near Me? (Low Cost & No Insurance Options)
Figuring out how to pay to go to a detox center can sometimes feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are options.
Health insurance typically provides some level of coverage for substance abuse treatment, but there is typically still some cost left to the individual. For some people in need of treatment, these payments can be too high. In such cases, free detox centers may be the answer.
There are several avenues through which you can find free detox treatment options. If you have insurance, medically assisted detox services may be fully or partially covered. State-funded detox centers may offer free or discounted services to individuals with no income and no insurance. Certain private treatment centers, often run by religious organizations, can also be a resource for free detox programs.
Are There State-funded Detox Centers?
Most states provide funding for addiction and substance abuse treatment centers that accept clients with no income or no insurance at no cost. These programs sometimes have waiting lists, and you must meet certain criteria before becoming eligible for free services. Most states require the following:
- Official residency within that state
- Proof of no income or no insurance
- Proof of an addiction and an immediate need for intervention
Once the state has found that you meet all necessary requirements, different levels of treatment may be offered. Available free detox services can be found by contacting your state mental health or substance abuse agency. SAMHSA maintains a database of all state agencies, including contact information. You can also find detox centers near you by using SAMHSA’s treatment facility locator. Your state substance abuse agency can tell you which providers provide free treatment services.
Are There Faith-Based Detox Programs?
Several faith-based organizations provide free or low-cost alcohol and drug recovery programs. The Salvation Army is a well-known provider of faith-based rehab programs throughout the United States and is only one example of a private organization that offers these services. Many more locally based organizations exist. Other private organization offer support services, including support groups and other resources, but do not offer medically supervised detox and require individuals to undergo detox through other means before accessing the services they provide.
Faith-based organizations integrate faith traditions into the treatment process. For individuals who wish to integrate their religion into their recovery, this can be a helpful resource. Finding free faith-based detox programs involves contacting the leaders of your faith tradition to find out what resources they can offer. Not all private detox centers offer free services, so make sure to ask about the cost of detox before entering treatment.
How to Use Insurance to Pay for Detox?
As of 2014, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act requires all health insurance plans sold through the health insurance marketplace, as well as Medicaid, to provide coverage for addiction and substance abuse treatment. Depending on your insurance coverage, your plan may pay for some or all of your treatment. Many insurance plans provide addiction services before the deductible is met, which can help to significantly reduce costs.
Contact your insurance provider to find out what coverage is provided for substance abuse treatment. If you don’t have insurance, you may be eligible for free services through state-funded or private detox treatment facilities.
American Addiction Centers offers free and confidential guidance to those suffering from addiction. Call our addiction hotline today at
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Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. The evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are intended to be used as an informational tool to assess the severity and probability of a substance use disorder. The test is free, confidential, and no personal information is needed to receive the result.
How to Choose the Best Detox Center for You
When deciding between detox treatment centers, there are several important considerations you should keep in mind. These include:
- Credentials: It’s generally a good idea to seek out centers with accreditation (The Joint Commission, CARF) and state licensing to ensure that the facility is adhering to safety and comfort guidelines.
- Treatment: What kinds of treatments are used at the center you’re considering? Other considerations include whether or not they offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT), medically managed withdrawal, and what types of evidence-based care are used.
- Staff: Are the medical professionals and therapists qualified to treat addiction? If you require additional care for co-occurring disorders, is the facility capable of helping you.
- Environment: Consider you comfort level needs, for instance private rooms, location accessibility, and any amenities you might need to support your recovery.
- Cost: If you’re uninsured, inquire about financial assistance or free options. If you have insurance, check to make sure the detox center near you accepts your insurance.
- Extras: Find out about the recommended stay length and any aftercare planning. Make sure to read reviews for insights about what to expect from the center.