Does Medicare cover addiction treatment?
From the RecoveryHome team. We write some questions from situations people often ask us about, and answer them with general information from public health sources. Been through this yourself? Your answer could help the next person who finds this page. How we write team posts
RH
RecoveryHome team Team
asked 2 days ago
Older adults and people with disabilities often ask whether Medicare pays for substance use treatment, and what's included.
RH
RecoveryHome team Team
answered 2 days ago · general information, not medical advice
Yes, Medicare covers many substance use treatment services, though not everything, and costs depend on your plan.
Commonly covered:
- Inpatient care in a hospital, including medically managed withdrawal, under Part A
- Outpatient services such as counseling, therapy, and intensive outpatient programs, under Part B
- Opioid treatment programs, including methadone and related counseling, under Part B
- Buprenorphine and other prescriptions under Part D drug plans
- Telehealth for many behavioral health services
Often not covered: long-term residential programs that aren't hospital-based, and sober living housing.
Check first: call the number on your Medicare card or plan, or 1-800-MEDICARE, and ask whether a specific program accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans may have their own networks and prior-authorization rules.
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