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Inpatient vs. Outpatient Rehab​: What Are The Differences?

  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Modified:
  • Reading Time: 9 minutes
  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Last Update:
  • Reading Time: 9 minutes

Everything you need to know about inpatient vs. outpatient drug rehab programs. Knowing the level of care and flexibility for each option will help you choose the best way to a substance-free life.

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Addiction recovery is a long and ongoing process. There is no set time for overcoming addiction because everyone is different. However, there are two main types of drug treatment: inpatient and outpatient.

Your healthcare expert will help you decide if you need inpatient or outpatient treatment. They will consider your goals and your case’s details.

Keep in mind that there is no clear winner between inpatient and outpatient treatment for substance use disorders. You should think about several factors before deciding which option is better for you.

Table of Contents

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Levels of Care
Popular Topics
Families & Addiction

Inside Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient Treatment

Care for those struggling with addiction often takes place in a residential environment, thus the term “inpatient therapy.” Inpatient therapy requires the patient to reside at the institution 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Detoxification from addictive substances is generally the first step in inpatient treatment programs. Patients can move from inpatient to outpatient care. They will use their new coping skills while still getting professional support. This happens after they complete more intense therapy in a hospital setting.

Features

Although inpatient facilities may provide somewhat different programs, most of them have common elements:

  • Mean duration of 28 days.
  • Counseling for individuals, groups, and families.
  • Administration of medications if medically required.
  • Treatment for a variety of mental health issues all at once.
  • Treatment through recreational activities.
  • Involvement in 12-step meetings.
Benefits and Drawbacks

Choosing between inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation involves weighing several factors, including the advantages and disadvantages of inpatient treatment facilities.

Among the many advantages of inpatient treatment are the following:

  • Continuous monitoring and responsibility.
  • Integrated treatment for many mental health disorders.
  • At the start of the recovery process, it is important to stay away from things that might cause a relapse. This includes certain people, places, and items.

Inpatient rehabilitation has potential downsides:

  • Being unable to continue working because of treatment.
  • Removing oneself from family members.
  • Specific insurance plans may only cover some of your treatment stay.
  • Higher expenses due to constant monitoring.
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Balancing Recovery with Daily Life

Outpatient Treatment

When receiving rehabilitation as an outpatient, patients are free to go about their daily lives as usual. Patients can schedule their therapy to fit their busy lives. Professionals can also follow the highest clinical standards by treating patients on an outpatient basis.

Features

The methods in outpatient alcohol recovery and drug treatment centers can vary greatly. Each center may use different approaches. This is similar to what happens in inpatient settings. Nonetheless, the following characteristics may be seen in most outpatient services:

  • A duration of around three months on average.
  • Counseling for individuals, groups, and families.
  • Prescription drug management guidelines.
  • Actions include attending 12-step group sessions.
  • Rehabilitative exercises.
Benefits and Drawbacks

When deciding to get outpatient treatment, it is important to consider the benefits and any possible downsides. Outpatient services may provide:

  • Availability to adjust plans as needed.
  • Skills necessary to keep one’s current employment.
  • The possibility of obtaining essential services without leaving the area has decreased.

There are certain disadvantages to outpatient programs:

  • Increased potential for relapse and drug access even during rehabilitation.
  • Reduced access to healthcare.
  • There are fewer chances to recognize and treat comorbid mental health problems.

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Comparing the Costs

Cost Analysis: Outpatient vs. Inpatient Rehab

There is a big price difference between inpatient and outpatient care. This matters when you choose which option to take. On average, inpatient treatments cost more than outpatient ones.

Without health insurance, the monthly cost of an inpatient rehab center can be between $20,000 and $40,000. The cost depends on the type of therapy. Basic therapies may cost around $20,000, while more extensive treatments can reach $40,000. Conversely, most outpatient treatment programs may be completed for around $1,000.

When comparing the costs of inpatient care to outpatient care, a key factor is if the client’s insurance will pay for the treatment.

Some insurance companies may prefer to pay for outpatient care. Others will only cover inpatient care if outpatient care has not worked. As a result of differences in health and insurance coverage, the total cost of rehabilitation might range substantially.

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Evaluating Your Options

Inpatient Rehab vs Outpatient Rehab: A Brief Comparison

Inpatient Rehab
  • Ideal for those who need immediate medical attention or who have a mild to severe addiction.
  • Constant access to healthcare professionals and social services.
  • It’s usually more costly than outpatient care.
  • The service is available around the clock, every day of the week.
  • This type of program offers a complete therapy program for patients. The average stay is about one month.
  • The average program length is 30 days.
  • Since the average length of therapy is 30 days, the patient must withdraw from their daily routine of everyday life.
  • Regular and long sessions.
Outpatient Rehab
  • Suitable for those who need a moderate amount of attention.
  • It is easily connected to a community of recovery resources.
  • Comparatively less expensive than inpatient.
  • Time commitments are often between three and thirty hours each week.
  • Since the patient lives at home for care, outpatient therapy offers long-term help. It also provides a convenient schedule.
  • Extended outpatient care usually lasts longer than inpatient care. It can last from a few months to a year or more if needed.
  • A more consistent schedule is seen in this condition.
  • Infrequent one-on-one counseling sessions.
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Finding Your Fit

Which Kind Of Drug And Alcohol Treatment, Inpatient Or Outpatient, Would Be Best For You?

The duration and type of care provided by inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment centers are critical distinctions. Both inpatient and outpatient programs have their benefits. You can receive the right level of care for your recovery needs.

Here are some points to think about when choosing between an inpatient or outpatient drug and alcohol treatment center:

1. How Frequently Do You Have The Temptation To Use Drugs Or Alcohol?

Inpatient treatment is often more effective for those with more powerful, persistent cravings to engage in risky drug use. However, outpatient treatment is more appropriate if your drug abuse desires are less frequent and less severe.

2. How Committed Are You To Show Up To Meetings?

Those who have trouble getting to treatment sessions may do very well in an inpatient setting, where trained medical staff can assist. On the other hand, outpatient drug and alcohol rehab may be better if you want to take part in your recovery. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of counseling and therapy.

3. Do You Need Therapy For Any Other Mental Health Issues?

You will probably get all the medicines you need for your co-occurring disorders on time. This is more likely with inpatient care than with outpatient care.

Inpatient treatment is helpful because it provides guidance. This support helps you learn to control drug abuse. It also addresses any mental health issues you may have.

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Choosing the Right Rehab Options

Choosing between inpatient and outpatient rehab is a personal decision. It depends on your situation and how severe your addiction is. Inpatient rehab offers a supportive and structured place for people with serious addiction problems. It provides care 24/7.

On the other hand, outpatient rehabs are flexible. They let you keep up with your daily life while getting help. This makes them a good choice for people with less severe addictions.

Talking to an addiction specialist or healthcare professional is important. They can help you find the best option for your journey to sobriety. If you or someone you value is unsure about the right level of care, please contact us today. We can help you explore your options.

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Written By:

Dr. Saman Aftab, Ph.D.

Dr. Saman Aftab, Mental Health write at Rolling Hills
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Mental Health Writer

About Author:

Dr. Saman is a mental health writer with over six years of experience in freelance writing, editing, and proofreading. She is a practicing healthcare professional holding a doctorate in physical therapy at DOW University of Health Sciences. Dr. Saman started content writing to blend her passion for writing and medicine with her extensive clinical experience.

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Carl Williams Ph.D., LCADC

Carl Williams, medical content reviewer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Expert Contributor

About Reviewer:

Dr. Williams presently serves on the board of Directors for two non-profit service organizations. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, Philadelphia, Pa, and a Ph.D. with a concentration in Clinical Psychology from Union Institute and University. In Cincinnati, Ohio. He is licensed to practice addictions counseling in both New Jersey and Connecticut and has a pending application as a practicing Psychologist in New Jersey.

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