According to the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), there were approximately 6.5 million illicit drug users who needed but did not receive specialty treatment for substance abuse last year. Of the reasons cited for not entering a rehabilitation program, lack of funding was one of the more prevalent issues.
Many treatment providers are hoping that the Affordable Care Act that is set to take effect next year will open the door for more people receiving the help they need. An article in the Washington Post indicates that number of people who would become eligible for coverage and thus seeking treatment could double. They raise the issue as to whether or not there are enough treatment beds available for the probable influx of patients.
However, there is another thought that recent drug law changes in New York serves an indicator that availability doesn’t suddenly mean usage. While insurance coverage for drug rehab doesn’t equal the same as nonviolent offender sentencing, it still creates a valid point that other social factors could be limiting those receiving treatment than just financial aid.
At Desert Cove Recovery, we understand that those people who have insurance coverage for addiction treatment want to get the most out of their policies. We work with many of the top insurance carriers to help provide services for those in need of professional care, and we welcome the prospect of being able to assist many more on their path to recovery.
