What is Partial Hospitalization?
A partial hospitalization program is also referred to as a PHP. It is an intensive course of treatment that combines substance use disorder rehab with outpatient care. These programs often include drug and alcohol rehabilitation, mental health counseling, physical or occupational therapy rehabilitation, and medical treatment. There are no set requirements for the length of stay in a PHP, as each facility will have its program policies and guidelines.
Partial hospitalization programs are often part of an inpatient drug rehab center. They are considered to be one step below inpatient care. These programs allow patients to attend treatment during the day and return home at night to complete their homework assignments. Some programs will allow patients to live at home while attending the program.
A partial hospitalization program is frequently referred to as a PHP and follows the same general treatment format found in residential treatment centers. The main difference between inpatient programs and partial programs is where you live. Partial programs are also known for their increased focus on mental health treatment.
Patients attend outpatient drug treatment programs to continue their recovery while they live at home. These programs can cover everything you need in an intensive treatment program. This includes psychotherapy, individual and group counseling, group therapy, and patient education.
What is a Secondary Partial Hospitalization Program?
Some PHP programs serve as a secondary partial hospitalization programs. This is where treatment for co-occurring disorders is also provided. A secondary program often deals with the mental health issues a patient suffers from in addition to their substance use.
Other secondary PHP programs will help patients deal with the physical effects of substance abuse on their bodies, such as chronic pain or insomnia. These programs also focus on other mental and physical health concerns related to drug and alcohol use disorder rather than just focusing on drug and alcohol treatment.
Does Insurance Cover PHP Programs?
Generally, health insurance policies will cover PHP programs. However, insurance likely will not cover the following:
- Meals
- Transportation
- Social aspects of recovery programs
- Vocational training that might be a part of the PHP
How Long is PHP?
People often attend partial hospitalization programs for 5 hours daily. This helps patients avoid becoming too disconnected from work, school, and family responsibilities while they attend treatment. Many patients will only need to attend a PHP for as little as one week, while others may need to attend for months.
The length of stay and requirements for participation vary widely from program to program.
How Much Does a Partial Hospitalization Program Cost?
Compared to inpatient programs, PHPs require patients to pay less out-of-pocket costs. PHPs are often offered on an outpatient basis at reduced rates or sliding scales.
There are alternative funding sources for people who cannot afford insurance or do not have private insurance to help them pay for treatment.
What Is a Day in a Partial Hospitalization Program Like?
The exact structure of each program will be different, but here is an overview of what a typical day would look like in a PHP:
- 8:00-8:30 am – Patients arrive.
- 8:30-10:00 am – Patients attend their daily therapy sessions.
- 10:00 am-11:30 am – Patients attend their medication counseling session.
- 11:30 am-12:00 pm – Lunch is served, and medications can be administered.
- 12:00 pm-1:30 pm – Patients attend individual and group counseling.
- 1:30 pm-3:00 pm – Patients participate in other forms of counseling, including art therapy or music therapy.
People who attend PHPs tend to have a more positive outlook on their recovery and feel more secure in their ability to stay sober. PHPs also help reduce the risk of relapse since patients attend group therapy, counseling sessions, and many other activities that keep them connected with the recovery community.
A PHP is a residential substance abuse treatment program attended several hours each day instead of a typical day at work or school. People who complete this program tend to overcome addiction, improve their mental health, and return to a more normal life.
To learn more about partial hospitalization programs in New York Tri-state Area, contact NYC Addiction Resources. NYC Addictions resources is a resource center of information on substance abuse problems and treatment options in New York Tri-state Area. We are here to help you find the best drug treatment option.
