Medicare

Last reviewed 2026-09-11

Medicare covers substance use disorder treatment, but the specifics depend on which part of Medicare applies and what level of care is involved.

Part A and Part B

Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital-based detox and treatment; Part B covers outpatient services, including opioid treatment programs (methadone and buprenorphine clinics), individual and group therapy, and some medication-assisted treatment. Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are required to cover at least what Original Medicare covers, though specific network rules vary by plan.

A common gap

Standard Medicare has historically covered fewer residential and long-term rehabilitation options than Medicaid or private insurance, since much addiction treatment falls outside traditional hospital-based care that Medicare was originally designed around. Checking directly with a facility about what specifically is billed to Medicare, and for what duration, avoids surprises after admission.

This page is for general education only and is not medical or insurance advice. Coverage varies by specific plan — always confirm directly with your insurer and the facility before admission. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988.