How does Texas Medicaid cover addiction treatment?
Texas Medicaid added a comprehensive substance use disorder benefit for adults on January 1, 2011. For eligible members, it covers:
- Assessment by a chemical dependency treatment facility
- Outpatient treatment, including individual and group counseling
- Short-term and long-term residential treatment
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT), which combines FDA-approved medication with counseling
- Residential and ambulatory (outpatient) detox
Most members get these benefits through Medicaid managed care. STAR serves children, pregnant women and some families. STAR+PLUS serves adults with disabilities and people 65 and older. STAR Kids and STAR Health serve children with disabilities and children in foster care.
Texas has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, so many adults without children or a disability don't qualify. If you're uninsured, HHSC funds treatment for people who qualify, and Outreach, Screening, Assessment and Referral (OSAR) centers help people get connected. See Texas programs that accept Medicaid and state-funded options in Texas.
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 Texas?
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) licenses chemical dependency treatment facilities under the Texas Health and Safety Code. A license should cover the specific services a program offers, such as detox or residential treatment.
Before you commit, ask the program for its HHSC license and confirm it's current. 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, such as offers of free travel or rent.
How does court-ordered treatment work in Texas?
Families sometimes ask whether they can get help for a loved one who refuses treatment. Chapter 462 of the Texas Health and Safety Code allows court-ordered treatment for people with chemical dependency in limited situations.
Here's how it works in general:
- Who can apply: A county or district attorney, or any other adult, can file a sworn written application.
- Medical exam: An application usually must include a certificate of medical examination for chemical dependency. Only a county or district attorney can file without one.
- Court finding: The court must find, by clear and convincing evidence, that the person has chemical dependency and meets the legal criteria for court-ordered treatment, which focus on the risk of serious harm.
- Length: The court can order treatment at an approved facility for up to 90 days.
The process is a legal proceeding, and the person has rights throughout. Contact your county 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 Texas program before you enroll?
Before you agree to admission, ask:
- What is your HHSC license, and does it 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 Texas?
Texas is large, so location matters. Major treatment hubs include:
- Houston and the Gulf Coast
- Dallas-Fort Worth, including Arlington and Plano
- San Antonio
- Austin and Central Texas
- El Paso and West Texas
- The Rio Grande Valley, including McAllen and Brownsville
- Corpus Christi, Lubbock and other regional centers
Use the filters on this page to find detox centers, residential programs, medication-assisted treatment or programs for veterans.
Should you get treatment in Texas or travel?
Staying in Texas is usually easiest if you have Texas Medicaid, which generally covers in-state providers. Because distances are long, it may still make sense to travel within the state to reach 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, whether it's across the state or out of state. 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 Texas
From big cities to rural counties, Texans have more treatment options than they may realize. 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.