Individuals can become addicted to drugs or alcohol no matter their handicap, disability or personal physical challenge. This sometimes makes individuals particularly more susceptible to becoming involved in drug or alcohol use, because of the varying challenges that this can bring about in the person's life. This is true for individuals in the deaf and hearing impaired community as well, and treatment for substance abuse and addiction is sometimes necessary. Deaf or hearing impaired persons will need ASL or other assistance as part of their treatment needs, and there are drug and alcohol rehab facilities available which cater to these needs. Professional substance abuse counselors who know ASL and can provide other necessary assistance to deaf or hearing impaired substance abusers.

Medicaid is a type of health insurance which is offered to individuals in certain low-income tax brackets. Eligibility for Medicaid depends greatly on income and other factors including whether or not the individual has dependents and if they receive any other assistance. Medicaid may possibly even cover the costs associated with drug or alcohol rehab, and there are many drug and alcohol rehab centers throughout the country which are covered through Medicaid. Many drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities which are covered through Medicaid may only deliver a limited treatment curriculum and may only supply such treatment on a short term basis, typically 30 days or less. Individuals who have Medicaid should look for which programs cover the greatest amount of treatment for the most amount of time to acquire the full rewards of a Medicaid rehab program.