While AI search can find answers on all types of things, it can’t provide one from first-hand experience. So here is our attempt to answer some of the most common questions that people have about drug and alcohol rehab programs.

How do I know if this program is right for me or my loved one?

Honestly, you don’t know if it will be the right one, but you can make sure that you have your list of must-haves in order of importance, and hope that it all works out. Your involvement before, during, and after treatment are usually more of an indicator of success than which program the person attends. Leaving it up to the rehab center or the person receiving treatment alone has a low chance of long-term success.

When making your list in order of importance, here are key points to consider: your belief in the treatment team and philosophy; whether or not it is in network with your insurance; what the cash rate discount pricing might be compared to your out of pocket expenses even using your insurance; what levels of care are necessary and which ones are provided; whether or not it specializes in the situation you or your loved one is facing. Location should be low on the list if it is residential, but obviously is much higher if looking for an outpatient program nearby.

Is it legal for rehabs to buy flights for people?

No, this is called inducement. Twenty years ago there were plenty of destination rehabs that were out of network and raking in huge sums from insurance policies, so they would often buy flights for people and waive all out of pocket expenses to come to their facility. Some shady places still do this, but it is illegal in most cases and an indication that the facility is unethical or desperate for clients.

The same goes for providing PHP or IOP housing at no cost while billing your insurance, as reimbursements cannot be used to pay for housing of outpatient programs.

Are interventions successful?

Yes, most interventions are successful in getting people into treatment. However, if the rest of the plan isn’t place, then they’ll likely go back to their old ways afterward. As mentioned above, family members and other loved ones must be involved before, during, and after treatment to achieve the best long-term results. Creating an aftercare plan that includes ongoing support beyond just regular recovery meetings or therapy visits help increase the likelihood of transformation.