There are differences between private and public drug rehabilitation in Canada. However, it is essential to note that both options effectively treat substance use disorders. When deciding which should be selected, the decision should be based on individual needs.
Addiction is unique to the individual, and the rehabilitation process should be tailored to their needs. However, private drug rehab centers are better at accomplishing this through the initial assessment. Public programs generally have a set process for treatment. Patients still receive an assessment, yet therapy is usually restricted to what the government pays for.
Pros and Cons of Private vs. Public Drug Rehab
There are pros and cons for both. When choosing either private or government-funded drug rehab, no one form is suitable for every individual.
Pros of private drug rehab:
- Programs offer longer stays to address every issue connected to addiction.
- More counseling methodologies are provided to meet individual needs.
- More non-traditional approaches to treating addiction, such as holistic or experiential therapy.
- Residential programs provide all the comforts of home
- Generally no wait lists
Cons of private drug rehab:
- The cost is high with residential private drug rehab.
- Canadian private drug rehab centers do not necessarily work with insurance providers.
Pros of government-funded drug rehab:
- The cost is affordable and covered by provincial healthcare.
- Programs are accessible within hospitals and clinics.
- Evidence-based therapy approaches.
Cons of government-funded drug rehab:
- There are long wait times.
- Shortage of beds to service growing needs within the community.
- Programs are generally shorter, and long-term care is not always available.
Both Private and Public Drug Rehab are Viable Options for Treatment
Government-funded and private drug rehab centers offer reliable and proven rehabilitation options. The primary difference between the two is the lengths of stay and the variety of treatment methodologies. Generally, a subsidized drug rehab program offers behavioral therapies or 12-step facilitation.
In addition, there are differences in wait times. Public drug rehab centers have longer wait times because more people access the programs.
Private drug rehab programs can deliver more options, such as holistic, nutritional, experiential, and more expansive behavioral therapies. Overall, both options are good to consider. Yet, it is crucial to find a drug rehab that meets individual needs; an assessment would help with this.
Making the Final Decision Between Private and Public Drug Rehab
The final decision should come from what is best for you or your loved one. Generally, therapy and counseling should be tailored to individual needs. An addiction assessment with a qualified professional is the best option to consider.
However, finances do come into question, and it is an essential deciding factor. It is not uncommon for families to spend between 10 and 15 thousand on drug rehab to have their loved one finish the program and relapse. In this situation, they would become hesitant to spend more money and may consider public drug rehab. Make sure you talk to a counselor in a private facility about their relapse policy.
The best approach is to speak with the experts and explore the different substance use treatment options.
