Finding a way to handle substance abuse or a mental health disorder starts with understanding the options available to address personal concerns in an insurance policy. When you or a loved one abuses a substance, seeking professional treatment in a rehabilitation program allows you to address the underlying cause of the condition and situation. In Connecticut, Aetna offers coverage for health and wellness through employers and group plans.

What is the Basic Coverage?

The basic coverage in an Aetna policy depends on the details of the plan and the goals of the employer. Generally, the policy covers most health concerns and mental health disorders. The exact amount of coverage depends on the specific details in the policy. For example, a basic policy usually covers emergency treatments or outpatient programs, but might set limitations on the in-patient options available. In most cases, you must pay the stated deductible before coverage applies to the situation.

A comprehensive policy usually offers more solutions and options for mental health disorders and addiction. If an employer provided or group policy offers comprehensive options, it will usually allow you to seek treatment for substance abuse and rehabilitation as long as you comply with the standards stated in your policy. For example, you might need to pay the deductible and stay within the Aetna network. Some policies do not pay for out-of-network treatment programs or limit coverage to the out-of-network options. Furthermore, the exact amount of coverage will usually depend on the type of program you select. Outpatient programs usually require a stated co-payment for each visit, such as $25 to $50 per visit. Residential care usually sets a percentage of the treatment costs, such as paying 80 percent of the costs and requiring a co-payment of 20 percent.

Employer Factors and Limitations

While Aetna offers policies in Connecticut, it is primarily available through employers, group programs or Medicare rather than individual policies. As a result, individuals must work with the options provided by an employer.

In most cases, employers offer one or more policies through Aetna that provide different levels of coverage. For example, the employer might offer a basic Bronze policy with basic coverage and a Silver policy with standard and more comprehensive coverage. The exact details depend on the specific employer and the options available through the employer, so individuals must evaluate the options available through the company to determine and appropriate option.

Limitations usually apply to any policy provided by an employer based on the needs and goals of the group. For example, the policy will usually cover addiction recovery and rehabilitation treatment, but it might set limitations on the duration of treatment or the type of treatment options available for your recovery goals. Pay attention to any exceptions, limits or details that impact your treatment goals to ensure that your Aetna policy helps with your recovery.

Evaluating Treatment Programs

After identifying your coverage, consider the treatment options available for your situation. In most cases, you want to compare in-patient and out-patient programs based on your situation. If you cannot take time off work for treatment or you have obligations that limit the time available for treatment, then consider an outpatient facility. When you need more comprehensive treatment and have time available for the treatment, consider a residential, inpatient facility.

You also want to consider the treatment solutions available in the program. In most cases, evidence-based and holistic programs offer the tools you need to recover. For example, evidence-based treatments use tools like cognitive behavioral therapy to help address behaviors and thought patterns. Holistic treatments evaluate the entire situation and then develop a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and goals.

Traditional treatments use tools like counseling and group therapy to address substance abuse or mental health disorders. Consider programs that also offer detoxification services or that help connect you to a detox program to start the recovery process.

Selecting a Facility

The best treatment program in Connecticut for your goals will depend on the situation and the underlying complications that contribute to substance abuse. Compare a variety of options before finalizing any plans for your recovery goals. To learn more about treatment options or to compare different programs, use the tools at DrugRehab.org or contact us today!