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Understanding COBRA: Continuing Health Coverage During Rehab

COBRA

Starting addiction treatment is a big decision—and it often comes with just as many logistical questions as emotional ones. One of the biggest concerns we hear from clients at Ocean Ridge Recovery, a residential treatment center in Orange County, is: What happens to my health insurance if I need to leave my job or reduce my hours for rehab?

The good news? COBRA insurance can help you maintain your health coverage during treatment programs, even if you’re no longer actively employed. Here’s everything you need to know about using COBRA coverage while getting help for drug addiction, substance use disorders, or mental health needs.

COBRA Insurance

What Is COBRA Insurance?

COBRA stands for the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act—a federal law that allows employees and their families to continue their employer-provided health insurance after certain qualifying life events, such as:

  • Quitting your job
  • Being laid off
  • Reducing your work hours
  • Taking an extended medical leave

With COBRA continuation coverage, you can keep your existing health benefits for up to 18–36 months, depending on the situation, so you don’t lose coverage while focusing on your recovery.

Why Is COBRA Important for Addiction Treatment?

If you’re entering a rehabilitation program at an accredited addiction treatment center, maintaining your health coverage is essential. That’s because many addiction treatment centers, including Ocean Ridge, work with insurance to cover all or part of your treatment.

Through COBRA coverage, you can continue accessing:

  • Inpatient and outpatient treatment programs
  • Medically necessary drug treatment and alcohol rehab
  • Services for co-occurring substance use disorders and mental health issues
  • Medications and therapy provided by licensed medical professionals
  • Personalized and evidence-based addiction treatment

How COBRA Coverage Works

When you experience a qualifying life event, your employer is required to inform you of your eligibility for COBRA insurance. You typically have 60 days to decide whether to opt in.

Here’s what to know:

  • Coverage COBRA provides is the same as your current group health plan
  • You’re responsible for paying the full health coverage premium (including the part your employer used to pay)
  • It ensures uninterrupted health benefits while you’re in a vulnerable place in your recovery journey

Using COBRA at Ocean Ridge Recovery

At Ocean Ridge, we understand the importance of continuing your health insurance coverage while in care. Our admissions team is well-versed in COBRA coverage and works closely with medical professionals, case managers, and HR reps to make sure you can access the care you need.

Whether you’re just beginning your recovery from drug addiction or seeking long-term support for substance use disorders, we’ll help you use your COBRA insurance to cover:

  • Detox and stabilization
  • Individual and group therapy
  • Dual diagnosis care
  • Relapse prevention support
  • Long-term wellness planning
Drug Rehab for American Federation of Teachers

Is COBRA the Right Option for Me?

If you’re worried about losing health coverage during addiction treatment, COBRA can be a lifeline. It’s especially valuable for people who are transitioning between jobs or need to take time off work for personalized treatment.

However, since COBRA coverage can be expensive, it’s important to compare your options—including the health coverage available through the marketplace or a spouse’s plan.

Let Ocean Ridge Support You Through the Process

Navigating insurance while seeking help for drug abuse or addiction can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Ocean Ridge Recovery, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, including verifying COBRA insurance, exploring additional resources, and helping you secure the care you need without delay.

Contact us today for a free and confidential insurance verification, and let us help you take the next step toward a long-lasting recovery process.

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