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Birmingham VA Health Care System

700 S. 19th Street Birmingham, AL 35233
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Top 10 Rehab In Alabama
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Top 10 Rehab In Birmingham
Birmingham VA Medical Center AL 35233
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Top 10 Rehab In Alabama
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Top 10 Rehab In Birmingham

About Birmingham VA Health Care System

Treatment at Birmingham VA Medical Center begins with a comprehensive medical and mental health assessment, drug and alcohol screenings, and a personalized care plan. Their acclaimed programs are accredited by The Joint Commission, CARF, and SAMHSA.

Their inpatient programs allow clients to focus on their recovery in a highly structured and supportive environment featuring round-the-clock clinical supervision and premium amenities. Clients undergoing detox may be prescribed FDA-approved medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications. Clients engage in intensive individual, group, and family counseling and robust, recovery-focused life skills training addressing topics such as relapse prevention. An array of evidence-based complementary therapies is available, including acupuncture, experiential therapy, and meditation and mindfulness.

Their outpatient programs encompass multiple levels of care to align with clients’ evolving needs and include continuing addiction counseling and recovery education. Their aftercare services may include sober living transitions, 12 step program facilitation, and referrals for additional services.

In addition to military benefits, Birmingham VA Medical Center accepts most major insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, BlueCross BlueShield, Humana, United Healthcare, and others. Out of network benefits vary. Contact your provider to verify coverage.

Latest Reviews

George Welty
1 week ago on Google
5
I Love everything about the Birmingham VA. The Doctors, Nurses, Admin staff, even the Van Drivers and Volunteers are Professional, Helpful and always Friendly. I have 100%+ confidence that my care is in Great hands. I have never had a Bad experience in my entire time and my Healthcare is in the "Beat Care Anywhere"! The entire Staff at the Birmingham VA is Excellent!
Kathie J Jones
1 month ago on Google
5
They have all been great to my son.
Junior Abbott
1 month ago on Google
5
Got treated great 👍 at eye surgery today
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Rehab Score

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Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full MethodologyCaret icon
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7.8 / 10

Accepted Insurance

Birmingham VA Health Care System works with several private insurance providers and also accepts private payments when possible, please contact to verify your specific insurance provider.

Other Forms of Payment

Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Financial aid can take many forms. Centers may have grants or scholarships available to clients who meet eligibility requirements. Programs that receive SAMHSA grants may have financial aid available for those who need treatment as well. Grants and scholarships can help you pai for treatment without having to repay.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

outpatient iconOutpatient

Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.

intensive-outpatient iconIntensive Outpatient

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are for those who want or need a very structured treatment program but who also wish to live at home and continue with certain responsibilities (such as work or school). IOP substance abuse treatment programs vary in duration and intensity, and certain outpatient rehab centers will offer individualized treatment programs.

aftercare iconAftercare Support

Rehab aftercare programs are designed to provide support to you after completing an addiction treatment program. These programs are highly customized and evolve with your changing needs. You'll partner with staff at the treatment center to identify any specific medical, behavioral, and social services needed to support your sustained sobriety. Aftercare services may include peer coaching, career counseling, and other personalized support.

sober-living iconSober Living Homes

Sober Living Houses (SLHs), aka sober homes or halfway houses, are safe, substance-free, supportive living facilities for those recovering from substance abuse. Ideal for those who've just been through inpatient or outpatient treatment, SLHs are supervised environments with rules that support sobriety, such as curfews, shared chores, and therapeutic meetings. Residents are also often trained on life skills and coping skills to make it easier to transition into society. SLHs also provide a strong sense of community that can lead to the kind of deep and lasting connections with other sober individuals that supports a new, healthy lifestyle.

heart-hands iconIntervention Services

Intervention services helps family or friends of addicts stage an intervention, which is a meeting in which loved ones share their concerns and attempt to get an addict into treatment. Professional intervention specialists can help loved ones organize, gather, and communicate with an addict. They can guide intervention participants in describing the damage the addict's behavior is causing and that outside help is necessary to address the addiction. The ideal outcome of an intervention is for the addict to go to rehab and get the help they need.

partial-hospitalization iconPartial Hospitalization Program

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a short-term form of intensive rehab, usually for those with acute symptoms that are hard to manage but don’t require 24-hour care. PHPs have structured programming (i.e. individual and/or group therapy), and usually meet 3-5 days a week for around 6 hours (i.e. 9am-3m). Some PHPs are residential (patients sleep on site) and some are not, so patients sleep at home. PHPs can last from 1-6 months, and some offer transportation and meals.

medically-assisted-detox iconMedically Assisted Detox

Drug and alcohol addiction often takes a heavy toll on one's body. Over time, a physical dependence can develop, meaning the body physiologically needs the substance to function. Detox is the process of removing drugs and/or alcohol from the body, a process that can be lethal if mismanaged. Medical detox is done by licensed medical professionals who monitor vital signs and keep you safe, healthy, and as comfortable as possible as you go through detox and withdrawal.

Treatments

The goal of treatment for alcoholism is abstinence. Those with poor social support, poor motivation, or psychiatric disorders tend to relapse within a few years of treatment. For these people, success is measured by longer periods of abstinence, reduced use of alcohol, better health, and improved social functioning. Recovery and Maintenance are usually based on 12 step programs and AA meetings.

Drug rehab in Alabama provides medical or psychotherapeutic treatment for drug dependency. Methods of treatment often include a combination of medication, counseling, and recreational therapies.

Many of those suffering from addiction also suffer from mental or emotional illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety disorders. Rehab and other substance abuse facilities treating those with a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder administer psychiatric treatment to address the person's mental health issue in addition to drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

A combined mental health and substance abuse rehab has the staff and resources available to handle individuals with both mental health and substance abuse issues. It can be challenging to determine where a specific symptom stems from (a mental health issue or an issue related to substance abuse), so mental health and substance abuse professionals are helpful in detangling symptoms and keeping treatment on track.

Opioid rehabs specialize in supporting those recovering from opioid addiction. They treat those suffering from addiction to illegal opioids like heroin, as well as prescription drugs like oxycodone. These centers typically combine both physical as well as mental and emotional support to help stop addiction. Physical support often includes medical detox and subsequent medical support (including medication), and mental support includes in-depth therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.

Programs

adult-program thumbnail image

Adult Program

Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.
lgbtq-program thumbnail image

LGBTQ Program

Recovery is most successful when clients feel accepted and validated by their peers and treatment providers. Facilities that offer LGBTQ-inclusive programming are committed to creating a safe space where everyone can grow and recover without fear of judgment or discrimination. They will have dedicated policies in place to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters free expression.
military-program thumbnail image

Military Program

Serving in the military is both mentally and physically challenging, and can result in trauma that persists even after combat ends. Military programs are tailored to the specific and often complex needs of active duty personnel, veterans, and military families. Clients often access these programs through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Clinical Services

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.

Group therapy is any therapeutic work that happens in a group (not one-on-one). There are a number of different group therapy modalities, including support groups, experiential therapy, psycho-education, and more. Group therapy involves treatment as well as processing interaction between group members.

In individual therapy, a patient meets one-on-one with a trained psychologist or counselor. Therapy is a pivotal part of effective substance abuse treatment, as it often covers root causes of addiction, including challenges faced by the patient in their social, family, and work/school life.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a clinical approach to helping people with substance abuse issues and other conditions shift behavior in positive ways. It is more goal-oriented than traditional psychotherapy, as MI counselors directly attempt to get clients to consider making behavioral change (rather than wait for them to come to conclusions themselves). Its primary purpose is to resolve ambivalence and help clients become able to make healthy choices freely.

Trauma therapy addresses traumatic incidents from a client's past that are likely affecting their present-day experience. Trauma is often one of the primary triggers and potential causes of addiction, and can stem from child sexual abuse, domestic violence, having a parent with a mental illness, losing one or both parents at a young age, teenage or adult sexual assault, or any number of other factors. The purpose of trauma therapy is to allow a patient to process trauma and move through and past it, with the help of trained and compassionate mental health professionals.

Whether a marriage or other committed relationship, an intimate partnership is one of the most important aspects of a person's life. Drug and alcohol addiction affects both members of a couple in deep and meaningful ways, as does rehab and recovery. Couples therapy and other couples-focused treatment programs are significant parts of exploring triggers of addiction, as well as learning how to build healthy patterns to support ongoing sobriety.

Research clearly demonstrates that recovery is far more successful and sustainable when loved ones like family members participate in rehab and substance abuse treatment. Genetic factors may be at play when it comes to drug and alcohol addiction, as well as mental health issues. Family dynamics often play a critical role in addiction triggers, and if properly educated, family members can be a strong source of support when it comes to rehabilitation.

Life skills trainings involve all the skills a person must have in order to function successfully in the world. These include time management, career guidance, money management, and effective communication. Truly successful addiction recovery is based on the ability to not only live substance-free, but to thrive. Life skills teaches the practical necessities of functioning in society, which sets clients up for success in life, and therefore sobriety.

Amenities

  • car iconPrivate Transportation
  • weight iconGym
  • home-setting iconResidential Setting
  • private iconPrivate Setting

Accreditations

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Established in 1992 by congress, SAMHSA's mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on American's communities.

SAMHSA Listed: Yes

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a non-profit organization that specifically accredits rehab organizations. Founded in 1966, CARF's, mission is to help service providers like rehab facilities maintain high standards of care.

CARF Accreditation: Yes
Accreditation Number: 290867

The Joint Commission, formerly known as JCAHO, is a nonprofit organization that accredits rehab organizations and programs. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commision's mission is to improve the quality of patient care and demonstrating the quality of patient care.

Joint Commission Accreditation: Yes
Accreditation Number: 7945

Contact Information

Building icon

700 S. 19th Street
Birmingham, AL 35233

Fact checked and written by:
Terri Beth Miller, PhD
Edited by:
Quentin Blount

Rehab in Cities Near Birmingham

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Reviews of Birmingham VA Health Care System

3.41/5 (314 reviews)
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Reviews

5

Staff was knowledgeable, direct and transparent. I think they did a great job with me. They always went above and beyond in my case, answering my questions, and resolving any issues promptly. So polite and professional

Reviewed on 2/28/2019
Overall Experience
Date Submitted
Reviewer

Google Reviews

3.4 (313 reviews)
George Welty
1 week ago
5

I Love everything about the Birmingham VA. The Doctors, Nurses, Admin staff, even the Van Drivers and Volunteers are Professional, Helpful and always Friendly. I have 100%+ confidence that my care is in Great hands. I have never had a Bad experience in my entire time and my Healthcare is in the "Beat Care Anywhere"! The entire Staff at the Birmingham VA is Excellent!

ChantelT
2 weeks ago
1

Political Ponerology
3 weeks ago
4

Kathie J Jones
1 month ago
5

They have all been great to my son.

Junior Abbott
1 month ago
5

Got treated great 👍 at eye surgery today

D. Wane
1 month ago
1

Danny McLain- I have lived in several states and the Alabama VA, mainly Birmingham, sheffield and Florence have been a huge nightmare! No one does their job. They'll hang up on you. You have to wait almost 2 hrs on hold before anyone answers a phone. Ppl are very unprofessional and right down rude! Do better!!! This place is a joke.

Matt McClellan
2 months ago
1

July 9th 2025 1:30 p.m. today I called three times to get ahold of the blue clinic to ask about a blood test I have taken last week I have seen a disregard of veteran services towards Veterans because they don't want to answer the damn phone because then they might have to do some actual work The blue clinic is the worst damn clinic I have ever seen it is freaking ridiculous should have got fired because you guys ain't worth the spit to work at the veterans hospital for veterans

Abraham Williams
2 months ago
1

Seems like everyone has a point to prove with the attitude they carry in their voice. Very disrespectful staff. Truthfully acts likes I’m bothering them at work for calling. Should probably send all the people whomever answers phones to basic etiquette class. Talking on the phone and being respectful is a very basic skill.

Sean Perkins
2 months ago
1

Easily the worst appointment I've ever had. My appointment time overlapped with when I was supposed to be at work, so I called and asked the prior day if showing up early would make it possible that I could be seen sooner and was told that there was a chance. My appointment was at 2:00. I arrived at 9:00. I am then told that the doctor I need would not arrive until noon. I tried to salvage the day by getting some things done in the immediate area and make it back just before noon and fill out my check-in paperwork. They take me inside and do my vitals at 12:15. This leaves me hopeful that I will be seen sooner. Time passes until it is already 2:00, and the whole point of arriving early has come and gone. I asked when I will be seen and they don't have any information for me. I'm not seen until 2:45, and the doctor informed me that there was a mixup in my clipboard. The entire conversation with the doctor was 15 MINUTES. My drive back to my job is 2 hours. I end up still missing half my shift, for a 15 MINUTE conversation... do not tell me there is a chance that I can be seen sooner and then have me not seen for my actual appointment until almost an hour later than it.

michael johnson
2 months ago
5

I took my son to the birmingham va for a colonoscopy on a saturday there was someone to meet us and escorted us to the doctors waiting room. All the people were great, from the receptionist to the doctor. I wanted to leave this post because the va is much malinged. they were great. thanks

Peter Hill
2 months ago
2

Not a fan of the telephone service, check in service, or wait times. Mostly just unprofessional or not knowing what or who to contact. The last 3 times I have been here from check in to see a Dr was 45 min to an hr past appt time. Guess I need to sign up for tricare prime to get some actual help outside. Very disappointed.

Angela Payne
2 months ago
5

Being a recent member using the VA facility in Birmingham, AL. I have experience some of the most nicest people. Doctors, health care and staff all appear to be friendly and helpful. The bus drivers are polite and patient. Information and support service are also nice. Thank you for your care, support and service.

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