Drug and Alcohol Use in Encinitas, CA
Encinitas, like the rest of San Diego County, has seen significant challenges due to the misuse of prescription drugs. In addition, methamphetamine remains a problem in the region. Some facts about drug use in San Diego County include:
In 2020, there were 722 deaths related to methamphetamine use in San Diego County.
Methamphetamine deaths in San Diego County increased every year between 2017 and 2020.
In 2019, San Diego County recorded over 11,000 arrests for crimes related to methamphetamine.
In 2019, 275 people died in San Diego County due to prescription drug abuse.
Of the opioid deaths in San Diego County in 2019, 151 were due to fentanyl ingestion.
In 2019, nearly 20,000 adults in San Diego County sought treatment for substance use disorder.
How to Pay for Substance Abuse Treatment in California
Private Insurance
Every insurance provider in the U.S. is required by law to provide at least some coverage for mental health and substance abuse treatment. In California, residents should contact their insurance provider to confirm specific coverage with their carrier, including applicable copays.
Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program. Funded by federal and state taxes, this program pays for medical services for children and adults who have limited income. To qualify for Medi-Cal, California residents must meet income requirements and be one of the following: pregnant, responsible for a child under 21 years old, blind, disabled or a disabled family member, or 65 years or older.
California Medicare
California Medicare is a government program providing coverage to residents who are over the age of 65 or who have end-stage renal disease. California residents can use Medicare to cover the cost of rehab and other addiction treatment services; however, not all rehabs accept Medicare insurance.
Sliding Scale Payment Options
Sliding scale payment plans only charge California residents what they can afford, based on their income. To qualify, residents typically need to provide proof of income and assets.
TRICARE in California
California TRICARE (West Region) is a government program that provides health insurance for military personnel, veterans, and their dependents. TRICARE coverage includes addiction treatment services, such as rehab and medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
IHS-Funded Drug Rehabs
Drug rehab programs funded by the Indian Health Service provide free addiction treatment to California Natives and Indigenous peoples in the U.S.
Resources
- San Diego Prescription Drug Abuse Task Force. (2020). 2020 Report Card.
- San Diego County Meth Strike Force. (2021). 2021 Report Card, Methamphetamine Strike Force.
