How does NC Medicaid cover addiction treatment?
NC Medicaid covers substance use disorder treatment for eligible members, including outpatient care, residential treatment, detox and medication for opioid use disorder. North Carolina expanded Medicaid on December 1, 2023, opening coverage to many more adults ages 19 through 64.
Members with a severe substance use disorder or serious mental illness may be enrolled in a Tailored Plan, a type of NC Medicaid managed care plan that launched on July 1, 2024. Tailored Plans cover physical health, prescriptions and behavioral health services together. See North Carolina programs that accept Medicaid and state-funded options in North Carolina.
Have questions about Medicaid or private insurance? Call (877) 847-2855 to talk with our admissions helpline. It's free and confidential.
Who licenses rehabs in North Carolina?
The NC Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR), through its Mental Health Licensure and Certification Section, licenses substance use treatment facilities under Chapter 122C of the state's General Statutes and the rules in 10A NCAC 27G. That includes residential programs, day treatment and outpatient opioid treatment programs.
Before you commit, ask the program for its DHSR license and confirm it covers the services 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.
How does involuntary commitment work in North Carolina?
Families sometimes ask whether they can get help for a loved one who refuses treatment. G.S. 122C-281 allows involuntary commitment of a person with a substance use disorder in limited situations.
- Who can file: Anyone who knows of a person with a substance use problem who is dangerous to themselves or others can sign a sworn affidavit.
- Where: Before a clerk of superior court or a magistrate in the county where the person lives or is found.
- What happens next: If the clerk or magistrate finds reasonable grounds, they issue a custody order so the person is examined by a commitment examiner. A court hearing follows if commitment is recommended.
The process is a legal proceeding, and the person has rights throughout. Contact your county clerk of court or an attorney for guidance. Our guide on how to help a loved one also covers non-legal approaches that encourage treatment.
What should you ask a North Carolina program before you enroll?
Before you agree to admission, ask:
- Is the program licensed by DHSR, 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 North Carolina?
Major treatment hubs include:
- Charlotte and the surrounding metro
- The Triangle, including Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill
- The Triad, including Greensboro, Winston-Salem and High Point
- Asheville and Western North Carolina
- Wilmington and the coast
- Fayetteville and Eastern North Carolina
Use the filters on this page to find detox centers, residential programs, medication-assisted treatment or programs for veterans.
Should you get treatment in North Carolina or travel?
Staying in North Carolina is usually easiest if you have NC Medicaid, which generally covers in-state providers. 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 North Carolina
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.