Alcohol And Drug Rehabs That Accept Golden Rule

Medically reviewed by

Isaac Alexis, M.D., AAMA, AMP-BC

April 9, 2019

When a person seeks treatment for alcohol and drug addiction, they may worry about how to pay for treatment. Fortunately, insurance companies like Golden Rule can help you overcome the financial barriers and offer coverage for a variety of addiction treatment services.

Golden Rule is operated by United Healthcare, one of the top-rated insurance companies in the country. Golden Rule offers coverage in states across the U.S., and specializes in short-term and temporary health insurance plans.

These short-term plans are especially helpful for those who are between jobs or still looking for a more long-term insurance plan. Golden Rule’s temporary health plans can help people pay for addiction treatment services such as therapy, medication, and alcohol and drug rehab centers.

If you are looking for an addiction rehab program to fit your budget, look into the coverage details of your Golden Rule plan. Coverage will vary, depending on your specific plan.

Does Golden Rule Cover Addiction Treatment?

Because United Healthcare is such a large insurance company, most Golden Rule plans offer coverage for alcohol and drug rehab programs.

The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 changed the way people cover the cost of addiction treatment. This law requires that insurance companies cover mental health and addiction services in the same way they would cover other medical conditions.

Coverage details will depend on your specific Golden Rule plan. To fully understand your individual benefits, contact a Golden Rule representative.

Drug And Alcohol Rehab Services Covered By Golden Rule

Golden Rule will likely cover a range of addiction treatment services. These may include medication-assisted treatment and inpatient treatment programs.

Some treatment services may charge a copay, or require coinsurance. It’s important to understand the details of your Golden Rule coverage, in order to gain the most from your health care plan.

Addiction treatment services covered by Golden Rule may also include:

• crisis intervention services
• medical detoxification
• recovery counseling
• individual and group therapy
• drug screening
• addiction education
• sober living options

Many people benefit from participating in an inpatient or outpatient treatment program. These longer programs can be highly effective, and may be covered by your Golden Rule plan.

Some of these services may require pre-authorization by a physician. This means a doctor will need to provide documentation on a person’s health status, in order for Golden Rule to offer coverage.

Inpatient (Residential) Treatment Centers

In inpatient treatment programs, clients live at the rehab center temporarily. This allows people to fully immerse themselves in the recovery process. Inpatient rehab centers are considered the highest level of treatment, as they keep people away from triggering environments.

Golden Rule members may have benefits that relate specifically to inpatient treatment. However, policyholders may be responsible for a series of copays, depending on their individual plan. Some treatment centers will also allow you to pay for treatment on a payment plan.

Inpatient treatment programs offer residential treatment that’s based on a highly structured environment. Clients engage in 12-step therapies, individual counseling, and nutrition and wellness programs.

Many inpatient programs will offer on-site detoxification and medication-assisted treatment. This allows clients to access the care they need in a protected and stable environment.

Inpatient treatment may be best for Golden Rule members who:

• have a co-occurring mental health disorder, such as depression
• have additional physical health concerns
• do not currently have a sober support system
• could benefit from a supportive living environment
• have tried less intensive treatment options without much success

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment programs are a less intensive form of treatment. Outpatient programs can last anywhere from several weeks up to a year. In an outpatient program, clients engage in group therapy and participate in addiction education classes.

This approach to treatment also allows for continued accountability. There may be ongoing drug screens, as well as weekly check-ins with a therapist. Regular contact with other group members helps newly sober people build a recovery support system.

Some people use outpatient programs as a “step down” form of treatment, after an inpatient stay. Those who could benefit from ongoing support may enroll in an outpatient program.

Outpatient rehab programs also have the benefit of flexible scheduling. Sessions may be offered in morning or evening sessions, to accommodate those with work and family responsibilities.

Outpatient treatment may be a good fit for Golden Rule members who:

• are unable to take a leave of absence from work
• already have a sober support system
• need to stick close to home due to family commitments
• have already completed an inpatient treatment program

There are multiple types of outpatient rehab programs. Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) offer treatment three days per week, for several hours at a time. Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) are offered on a more vigorous schedule, with required sessions five days per week.

Outpatient rehab programs are usually offered in central locations that are easy to find. Sessions may take place in a hospital, community center, or local doctor’s office.

Your Golden Rule plan may provide coverage for each of these outpatient treatment programs. Make sure to discuss your preferences with a Golden Rule representative, in order to fully utilize the benefits of your plan.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

For too long, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) was only used for certain drugs, namely opioids. Fortunately, today’s treatment centers utilize MAT for many types of addictions, as well as the treatment of co-occurring mental health disorders.

MAT may include medication that eases withdrawal symptoms during detoxification. Some treatment centers may also provide ongoing MAT, especially for those who struggle with relapse. MAT has been shown to regulate mood, and helps to keep cravings under control.

Insurance companies like Golden Rule are now required to provide coverage for these medications, at the same level that they cover prescriptions for other physical health concerns.

Using Your Golden Rule Insurance To Cover Alcohol And Drug Rehab

To ensure that your Golden Rule plan offers the treatment services you are seeking, consider contacting an insurance representative directly.

Next, contact the treatment center you are interested in. Verify that they accept Golden Rule insurance. To follow up, contact your insurance representative again and verify your plan’s specific coverage for the treatment services at the selected rehab center.

By knowing the facts about your coverage, you will be equipped to make an informed decision about addiction treatment. Being informed also helps prevent any surprise costs down the road.

Common Questions About Golden Rule Coverage

Seeking treatment for addiction can be a life-saving decision. In order to make the process as smooth as possible, be prepared with any questions you may have about treatment types and your plan’s coverage details.

Frequently asked questions about Golden Rule’s treatment coverage include:

• Does my plan cover detox services?
• Do my benefits cover all necessary medications?
• Does my Golden Rule plan have coverage for outpatient treatment?
• What about inpatient treatment?
• For what lengths of stay am I covered in an inpatient program?
• What is my financial responsibility (including copays and coinsurance)?
• Do I need documentation or a medical referral before I am covered for treatment?
• Is there any Golden Rule paperwork I need to complete before enrolling in treatment?

How To Find A Rehab Center That Accepts Golden Rule

Although coverage varies by plan and state, your Golden Rule insurance can help offset the cost of alcohol and drug rehab. Knowing what your plan covers enables you to more easily select the best treatment center for your needs.

Our treatment specialists are here to help guide you in this process. For more information about alcohol and drug rehabs that accept Golden Rule insurance, reach out to one of our team members today.

* Disclaimer: RehabCenter.net is not affiliated with or endorsed by Golden Rule or United Healthcare. Details about Golden Rule’s or United Healthcare coverage are intended for informational purposes only. The specific details of your plan may vary and the specific treatment services you require may or may not be covered.