Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide range of different treatment settings with a variety of different treatment approaches. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be performed on an outpatient basis, where the individual will typically attend treatment during the day but is allowed to return home daily. Other substance abuse treatment requires the person to stay in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is especially helpful in handling more severe cases of addiction. Inpatient and residential substance abuse treatment can be done on a short term or long term basis, depending on unique circumstances which can be different for each person. Most substance abuse treatment will focus on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then concentrate on the root psychological and emotional issues.

Drug rehabilitation programs which are offered on an outpatient basis are available to addicted people who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to take part in an inpatient rehabilitation center. An outpatient drug and alcohol treatment facility offers many of the same services as an inpatient program, but allows for flexibility as opposed to an inpatient drug or alcohol rehabilitation facility where the person is required to remain at the rehabilitation program until treatment has been fully completed. Outpatient drug or alcohol treatment is also offered for those who have already gone through residential or inpatient treatment but also need a thorough aftercare program which will provide additional support and therapy to help them remain clean and sober.

When pregnant/postpartum women need drug or alcohol treatment there are a number of concerns unique to their situation that must be addressed. This distinct group of addicted persons faces not only the personal shame of their addiction but also the reality of what their unhealthy choices may have caused their children. Substance abuse rehabilitation for pregnant/postpartum women often requires programs that are both individualized and flexible in their treatment plan. While the program duration may vary depending on the woman's particular needs it is understood that the longer a person stays in treatment the better their chance of a successful recovery. Many rehab facilities for pregnant/postpartum women can run long-term for six months or more.

Self payment substance abuse rehab facilities are an excellent alternative to other types of treatment centers i.e. private medical insurance and state funded programs. Individuals who are able to attend self payment programs pay for their entire rehab process out of pocket. Keep in mind though, this does not mean that they will not have access to financial assistance if needed. It just means that self payment is their primary method of covering the cost of their substance abuse rehab program. To learn more about self payment at a specific program, contact a drug treatment center and ask about their payment options. It is a good idea to contact several facilities so that you have an understanding of your choices regarding rehab options and payment methods.

Medicaid is a type of health insurance which is accessible to people in certain low-income tax brackets. Eligibility for Medicaid is dependent on income and other factors including whether or not the person has dependents and if they receive any other assistance. Medicaid may even cover the costs associated with drug rehabilitation, and there are a lot of drug and alcohol treatment programs throughout the country which are covered through Medicaid. Many drug rehab programs which are covered through Medicaid may only provide a limited treatment curriculum and may only supply such treatment on a short term basis, usually 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.