How to File Claims for Substance Abuse

If you plan to seek professional treatment for substance abuse, figuring out how to pay for it can be a daunting task. If you have health insurance that covers substance abuse problems, the company may help pay for treatment if you file a claim. Follow all of your insurance plan guidelines to ensure the claim is accepted. If you don't have health insurance, other options exist to help you afford treatment.

Instructions

• 1

  Call your insurance company and ask if substance abuse treatment is covered. Find out what your out-of-pocket costs will be. Some insurance plans may only cover substance abuse treatment if you have a dual diagnosis or a concurrent mental illness. You may be required to get a referral from your doctor before you can get substance abuse treatment.

• 2

  Ask your insurer if you must visit a network treatment provider, or if you can visit the provider of your choice. Your insurer may provide you with a case manager to coordinate your treatment plan.

• 3

  Bring your insurance card with you when you arrive at the office of your health care provider. If you do not have insurance, consider visiting a publicly funded mental health center. These clinics charge fees based on a sliding scale, so you only pay what you can afford.

• 4

  Ask your employer if your company offers an Employee Assistance Program. EAPs may provide substance abuse treatment services to employees, even if your company does not offer health insurance.