How does New York Medicaid cover addiction treatment?
New York Medicaid covers substance use disorder treatment for eligible members, including detox, outpatient and residential care and medication for opioid use disorder. Most members get their benefits through a Medicaid managed care plan.
Adults with significant behavioral health needs may be enrolled in a Health and Recovery Plan (HARP), a type of Medicaid managed care plan designed for adults with serious mental illness or substance use disorders. HARPs coordinate physical and behavioral health care and can offer extra home and community-based support.
New York expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, so many low-income adults qualify. See New York programs that accept Medicaid and state-funded options in New York.
Have questions about Medicaid or private insurance? Call (877) 847-2855 to talk with our admissions helpline. It's free and confidential.
Who certifies rehabs in New York?
The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) certifies addiction treatment programs. A provider needs OASAS approval and certification before it can open a program or offer a new service, and OASAS publishes a searchable directory of certified providers.
Before you commit, ask the program for its OASAS certification and check that it covers the level of care you need. Accreditation from The Joint Commission or CARF is a good added sign. Our guide on how to choose a rehab explains other quality checks and red flags.
What is the NYS HOPEline?
The NYS HOPEline is the state's free, confidential support line for substance use and problem gambling. Call 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369), any time, day or night. Trained staff can help with a crisis, find treatment and recovery supports, and support family members, in English, Spanish and other languages.
Can someone be held for treatment in New York?
Families sometimes ask whether they can force a loved one into treatment. New York has no general civil commitment process for addiction alone. Mental Hygiene Law Section 22.09 covers emergencies:
- Who it applies to: A person who is incapacitated by alcohol or drugs to the point that there's a likelihood of harm to themselves or others.
- Transport: Police, peace officers or local mental hygiene officials can take the person to a treatment facility.
- Exam: A physician must examine the person within 12 hours of arrival.
- Length: The person can't be held against their objection for more than 72 hours, and must be released sooner if they no longer meet the criteria.
Longer treatment is voluntary, so the emergency period is a chance to encourage the person to stay. Our guide on how to help a loved one covers approaches that encourage treatment.
What should you ask a New York program before you enroll?
Before you agree to admission, ask:
- Is the program OASAS-certified, and does that cover the services I need?
- Are you accredited by The Joint Commission or CARF?
- Do you accept my Medicaid plan or private insurance, and can you put my costs in writing?
- Do you offer or coordinate medication for opioid or alcohol use disorder?
- Can you treat co-occurring mental health conditions?
- How will you help me find outpatient care near home after discharge?
If you're worried about withdrawal, ask how the program handles medical detox. Withdrawal from alcohol and benzodiazepines can be life-threatening and should be medically supervised.
Where can you find treatment in New York?
Treatment options span the state. Major hubs include:
- New York City and its five boroughs
- Long Island, including Nassau and Suffolk counties
- Westchester and the Hudson Valley
- Albany and the Capital Region
- Syracuse and Central New York
- Rochester and the Finger Lakes
- Buffalo and Western New York
Use the filters on this page to find detox centers, residential programs, medication-assisted treatment or programs for veterans.
Should you get treatment in New York or travel?
Staying in New York is usually easiest if you have New York Medicaid, which generally covers in-state providers. It can still make sense to travel within the state for a specialized program, then continue outpatient care closer to home.
If you have private insurance, check whether a program is in your network before traveling. Our guide on whether insurance covers rehab explains networks, deductibles and prior authorization. Learn more about Medicaid coverage in general.
Find the right program in New York
Focus on licensing, the right level of care and a plan for aftercare. For help comparing programs and checking your coverage, call (877) 847-2855 to reach our admissions helpline. If you or someone you love is in danger, call 911, or call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.