Using VA Insurance for Addiction Treatment
Those with VA insurance can start by looking for treatment directly at a VA facility or at a community care partner. Programs like Salute to Recovery were designed to help those who have a substance use disorder and a co-occurring mental health disorder. Programs like these can provide a place of healing and support for Veterans. Some staff members are also Veterans and can help you navigate the recovery process through the use of evidence-based therapies and amenities tailored to your needs.
For veterans not currently enrolled in insurance, a good first step would be to apply for VA healthcare on their website.6
After registering, make an appointment to speak with your primary care provider about your substance use. It’s important to be honest about your struggles with substance use and let them know you want more information about treatment. Your doctor may be able to help you find a rehab facility that best meets your needs and is covered by your VA insurance.
If you don’t have a VA primary care provider or have never been to a VA facility before, you can:6
- Search for a SUD program near you at a VA facility.
- Call the general hotline for information about SUD treatment at 800-827-1000.
- Contact the local VA medical center.
What If I Have VA Insurance and Another Health Insurance Plan?
For Veterans who have health coverage other than VA insurance (such as private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid), VA benefits can be used in conjunction with other healthcare plans to cover medical expenses, including SUDs.7
Veterans receiving medical care for conditions unrelated to military service, the VA will require information about additional health insurance coverage so they can bill the private health insurance companies.7
Some treatment coverage options for Veterans include:
TriCare Benefits and Addiction Treatment
TriCare is a health insurance program that supports active-duty service members, their family members, and Veterans. TriCare insurance covers the cost of substance abuse treatment through VA hospitals. Benefits covered through TreCare include:8
- Drug testing.
- Intensive outpatient programs.
- Inpatient hospital services (both emergency and non-emergency).
- Management of withdrawal symptoms (detox).
- Medication assisted treatment (MAT).
- Opioid treatment.
- Partial hospitalization.
- Substance use disorder treatment.
- Therapeutic services.
Medicaid Benefits and Addiction Treatment
Medicaid provides free or low-cost health insurance to people who need it, including those who have VA insurance. An estimated 1 in 10 Veterans has some Medicare coverage for their healthcare needs.9
While Medicaid is helpful for many people, it is not accepted at every addiction treatment facility throughout the U.S., so make sure to ask if a facility accepts Medicaid. If you’re considering an AAC facility, you can quickly verify your benefits to see what may be covered by Medicaid or other types of insurance plans.
Medicare Benefits and Addiction Treatment
Veterans who have Medicare may still be covered even if you go to a non-VA hospital or doctor. This can give you more options when looking for certain services. The VA may also authorize some services you receive at a non-VA location, at which point Medicare may pay for those services.7
Be sure to check your Medicare plan to see if you’re covered for the locations and services you need, particularly addiction treatment.
