BCBS of Massachusetts covers a wide range of outpatient treatment for substance use disorders and mental health conditions. These treatments must also be medically necessary to be covered under your policy benefits. Some of those outpatient treatments include Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and general outpatient treatment.
This range of outpatient treatments ensures that you receive the intensity of services you need while still being able to live at home. Outpatient care is best for people who have a stable living environment without the temptations of drugs and alcohol in the home, which might mean that living in a sober living facility.
A PHP is sometimes used as a step down after an inpatient admission. It also can be the first level of care you receive, depending on your comprehensive evaluation that determines your treatment plan. A PHP provides the most intense outpatient treatment you can receive. The intensity is typically similar to that you would receive on an inpatient basis but you are allowed to return home in the evening.
An IOP usually has fewer therapy sessions per week, but continues to provide therapy over several days each week and for several hours each day. A general outpatient treatment program usually provides care one or two days per week. Each level of care provides evidence-based therapies in individual, group, or family therapy settings.
As you’re ready to graduate from the outpatient program your discharge plan will likely include an aftercare program. Aftercare programs can include several levels of care, from community support groups to weekly or biweekly therapy sessions. Some aftercare programs include alumni groups from the treatment center and others may include community vocational or educational support.
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