Expert Insights
When I think of the lawsuits filed against the opioid pharmaceutical companies, I immediately think of the multitude of states who filed suit and recently won enormous settlements from Big Pharma. What I wasn’t aware of, however, is that the Cherokee Nation had filed its own suit against the pharmaceutical manufacturers…and won. In fact, the Cherokee Nation won one of the largest settlements the opioid industry paid out: $75 million. Their case was filed back in 2017, claiming that overdoses caused by opioid painkillers more than doubled between 2003 and 2014.
A look at the numbers reveals just how badly the Cherokee citizens have been impacted by the opioid crisis. Despite only making up 6% of Oklahoma’s population, an astounding ⅓ of all the opioids distributed throughout the state went to Cherokee Nation communities. As a result, reservations in Oklahoma were overrun with health and addiction issues. The Cherokee plan to use the settlement money to start more harm reduction programs.~ Kerry Nenn
How Much Does Drug Rehab Cost in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is ranked 5th nationwide in terms of addiction treatment affordability, with an average cost of drug and alcohol rehab of $54,475 (without insurance).
- Medical detox is the most expensive, with an average cost of $134,301
- Inpatient drug rehab in Oklahoma costs an average of $48,071
- Outpatient addiction treatment in Oklahoma costs and average of $7,988
- Outpatient methadone treatment is the most affordable, with an average cost of $7,097
How to Pay for Drug Rehab in Oklahoma
As of 2024, there were over 210 drug rehab facilities across the state of Oklahoma. These facilities accept several payment methods. Of those treatment facilities, the following numbers reflect how many accept their respective payment methods:
156 accept self-payment or cash
108 offer sliding-scale fees for those without insurance
150 accept Medicaid insurance coverage
88 accept state funded insurance coverage
110 accept private health insurance
137 offer free or low-cost treatment
13 offer free treatment for all clients
65 accept tribal funding
What Are Low-Cost and Free Drug Rehab Options?
There are no state-operated drug or alcohol rehab centers in Oklahoma.
The state oversees the certification of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC). These centers are privately operated and meet standards of care set by the state for addiction treatment. The CCBHC provides services regardless of the patient’s ability to pay.
Some facilities in Oklahoma have free, low-cost, and sliding-scale programs for people who cannot otherwise afford care. You may also be able to arrange a payment plan to spread your costs out over time.
Do Medicare and Medicaid Cover Alcohol and Drug Rehab?
Yes, Medicare and Medicaid offer coverage for some services.
Medicare Part A covers inpatient addiction treatment.3 The cost to patients is the same co-pays as other types of hospitalization. If you choose an outpatient program, that will be covered by Medicare Part B. Some Medicare supplemental plans may offer additional options for addiction care.
Verify that the facility accepts Medicare before you start rehab. Not all programs accept Medicare plans.
Medicaid is required to cover addiction treatment.4 Each state has its own Medicaid program, and benefits can vary. Oklahoma’s Medicaid program is called SoonerCare, and it covers substance use care, including inpatient detoxification.5 You will need to get prior authorization for care before coverage can start.
SoonerCare eligibility is based on your income. You are eligible for SoonerCare if your income is 133% of the federal poverty level. People who are pregnant or have a disability are also eligible, and income limits may be lower.
Does Private Insurance Cover Rehab Center Costs?
The Affordable Care Act mandates that all private insurance plans must cover addiction treatment.
Plans don’t all offer the same level of coverage, and your out-of-pocket costs will vary according to what your insurance offers. Call your insurance company to find out what addiction services are covered under your plan.
Ask your insurance provider about:
The amount of your deductible
If you are responsible for copays
If the plan covers inpatient or outpatient treatment
Treatment centers that participate in your insurance company’s network
What, if any, exclusions are part of your plan
How Many People Struggle With Alcohol and Drug Use in Oklahoma?
In 2021, 17.2% of adults in the state of Oklahoma reported using drugs for non-medical reasons.1 In 2020, about 12.8% of adults in Oklahoma said they engaged in excessive drinking, which includes past-month binge drinking or heavy drinking.2
Men (23.4%) were more likely to engage in drug use than women (11.3%).
Men (17%) were also more likely to engage in excessive drinking compared to women (8.8%).
People listing their race as “other” reported the greatest incidence of drug use at 31%.
Hispanic, White, and multi-racial people reported excessive drinking rates at around 13%.
Important Alcohol and Drug Laws in Oklahoma
Medical Marijuana: Medical marijuana is legal in Oklahoma, and possession of a small amount without a license is considered a misdemeanor unless you can prove a medical condition. Possession of other drugs is considered a felony, and so is possession with intent to distribute. Oklahoma has mandatory sentencing for drug crimes. In 2018, the state legislature reformed drug sentences so there is less prison time than in the past.6
Alternative Sentencing for Non-Violent Drug Offenders: Oklahoma drug courts provide alternative sentencing for eligible offenders.7 Non-violent drug offenders may be sentenced to attend court-ordered rehab instead jail time. Certain facilities throughout the state are certified to provide court-ordered treatment.
Oklahoma Good Samaritan Law: Oklahoma has had a statewide Good Samaritan law since 2018.8 This allowed immunity from prosecution for anyone providing assistance to someone during an overdose. You cannot be arrested or prosecuted for possession if you call 911 to assist you or another person during an overdose.
Oklahoma Naloxone Access: Oklahoma has recently worked to expand access to naloxone.9 Family members of opioid users and first responders can receive the anti-overdose drug to keep on hand. Anyone with opioids in their home may procure naloxone from a participating pharmacy or mail-order program without a prescription.10Free naloxone is accessible at certain facilities.11
How To Choose the Right Addiction Treatment Settings
There are multiple options when it comes to levels of care. The best one for you will depend on a variety of factors.
Medical Detox is the first step of the recovery process. Detoxification is when drugs leave your system, and your body goes into withdrawal, which may require medical care.
Inpatient care is the most intensive. You will live on the premises full-time. You may begin with detoxification, then transfer into a recovery program. Inpatient treatment programs usually last 30, 60, or 90 days.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) allow you to go back to your inpatient facility to get care during the day. You’ll continue with therapy and work with the counselors you already know. You will be living outside the facility and have more independence, but you can still take advantage of the care you have been receiving.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) involve fewer daily hours of care than a PHP, but you will still be checking in regularly with your counseling team. They will provide counseling and support as well as make sure that you are able to manage your other responsibilities. These programs may taper off as you become more confident living independently.
Standard Outpatient programs include several three-hour sessions per week, so the time commitment is quite manageable. Depending on the individual program, you may be able to attend rehab around your work or school schedule.
Aftercare is one of the final stages of rehabilitation, helping you to prepare for recovery after you complete your program. Your counseling team will help you set up systems of support to ensure that you maintain your recovery over the long term. Aftercare plans should account for work, school, and family responsibilities as well as your living situation.
Finding a Specialized Drug Rehab in Oklahoma
You should choose a facility that meets your needs and aligns with your preferences. Programs offer different philosophies and amenities, so you can find an addiction treatment center that fits you and your situation.
- Holistic programs help clients work on spiritual, physical, and emotional balance. In addition to addiction counseling, they might have methods like acupuncture, massage, yoga, meditation, or hypnotherapy.
- Faith-based programs are helpful to people who have strong religious convictions. The programs provide opportunities for worship and prayer, as well as evidence-based counseling and therapy. These can be helpful if you observe strict behavior rules associated with your faith.
- Luxury treatment centers are an option for people who have the ability to pay for additional amenities. Luxury facilities may offer private rooms and gourmet food on-site. They may have increased privacy and security at the facility. Some include access to fitness programs, swimming pools, spa services, and high-end outings.
- Executive programs are great for people with demanding jobs. These programs allow participants to continue working while undergoing inpatient care. They allow phone and computer access and may permit business travel.
What to Look for in a Quality Treatment Program
Program Accreditation
Rehab facilities should be licensed by the state and hold accreditation by professional organizations. Oversight by qualified officials ensures that the facilities are safe and performing evidence-based care. Ask if your treatment center is accredited by organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities or the Joint Commission.
Low Staff-to-Patient Ratio
Addiction treatment centers with low provider-to-patient ratios focus on providing highly personalized and attentive care. In these facilities, providers are readily available and can spend considerable time addressing your unique recovery needs. They can also monitor your progress closely and adjust your plan as necessary to meet your ever-evolving needs.
Onsite Medical Care
If you have medical needs, look for a treatment center with medical staff on-site. You may want medical care when you detox. If you have additional needs or a disability that requires assistance, a facility with adequate medical accommodations would be helpful.
Credentialing of Staff
Medical and mental health professionals all undergo licensing and board certifications. The staff at a rehab should be fully qualified to perform their jobs. You can check their credentials with their professional boards or the state licensing facility.
Aftercare Planning
Aftercare is a crucial step in the rehabilitation process that provides invaluable relapse prevention resources and support. Look for programs that include individualized aftercare planning as part of care, so you’ll have a relapse prevention plan when you finish rehab.
Low Provider-to-Patient Ratio
Effective addiction treatment hinges on highly personalized and attentive care. Rehab programs that have low staff-to-patient ratios can provide this type of care because experts can spend more time with each patient.
Family Involvement
Discuss what the program expects with regard to family participation. If you want your family to be part of the process, many centers have programs for family members. If you need to take a break from your family, make sure the facility understands your wishes.
Utilizing Individualized Treatment Plans
Treatment centers should use your substance abuse assessment to develop an individual plan that meets your needs. Addiction is complicated, and no two people need the same things in recovery. Centers that attempt to use a one-size-fits-all method for rehab may not serve the best interests of all clients.
Financing Options
Your insurance may cover some of the costs of rehab, but there may still be significant out-of-pocket expenses. If cost is a challenge for you, ask if the facility offers sliding scale fees or payment plans.
Therapeutic Methods
Ask what types of therapy your rehab uses in treatment. It should use evidence-based methods of cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, and contingency management programs. Experimental or discredited therapy methods may be less effective.
Should You Travel to Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Oklahoma?
Choosing a location for addiction treatment is a personal choice. You can stay close to home or travel if that is your preference. If you want to go to a drug rehab in Oklahoma, the state has the benefit of being centrally located with easy access by car or plane. You might want to travel if:
- The facility or detox center you want is located there
- You want to be close to friends or family in Oklahoma
- Your insurance covers treatment there
- The climate or scenery appeals to you
Oklahoma boasts a combination of urban and rural communities. Oklahoma City is the state capital of Oklahoma and its largest city. It offers cultural attractions such as the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the Lyric Theatre, as well as sports, dining, and universities.
The smaller towns and rural communities across the state are home to outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing. There are state parks with hiking trails and beautiful scenery. There are even guest ranches where you can learn more about the agricultural industry in the state.
Resources
- Drug Overdose. (n.d.). Health Department.
- FindTreatment.gov. (n.d.). FindTreatment.gov.
- America’s Health Rankings. (2021). Non-Medical Drug Use – Past Year In Oklahoma.
- America’s Health Rankings. (2020). Excessive Drinking In Oklahoma.
- Medicare. (2022). Inpatient hospital care.
- Medicare. (2022). Mental health care (outpatient).
- Oklahoma Health Care Authority. (2022). Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.
- Oklahoma State Legislature. (2021). Title 63. Public Health and Safety
§63-2-401. Prohibited acts A – Penalties. - Oklahoma State Legislature. (2018). Bill Information for SB 1367.
- Oklahoma Mental Health and Substance Abuse. (2022). Oklahoma Drug Courts.
- Oklahoma State Department of Health. (2022). Naloxone.
- OK I’m Ready. (2022). Overdose.
- OPQIC. (2022). OPIOID & SUBSTANCE USE: FREE NALOXONE KITS.
