Substance use treatment

How do I get Apple Health treatment for a substance use disorder?

In Washington, the name of Medicaid is Washington Apple Health.

• If you are enrolled in Apple Health, you qualify to get treatment for a substance use disorder.
  • If you are not enrolled, find out if you are eligible, then apply for Apple Health through Washington Healthplanfinder.
• For 24-hour emotional support, and referrals to treatment and recovery services anywhere in the state, call the Washington Recovery Help Line.

Are there member satisfaction surveys?

At least once a year, a voluntary survey will be sent to see how you or your family member feels about the services you received. If you are contacted please take the time to respond. Your voice is the best way to improve the quality of your care. Any information you provide will be confidential.

What types of services are available?

We support the following types of substance use treatment services:

• Alcohol use treatment
• Involuntary treatment (Ricky's Law)
• Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)
• Opioid use treatment
• Youth and young adult substance use disorder treatment

How do I find a provider?

Call the Washington Recovery Helpline at 1-866-789-1511 or visit the Washington Recovery Helpline website.

Who has priority for Apple Health treatment?

• Pregnant individuals who use IV drugs
• Pregnant individuals
• Others who use IV drugs
• Postpartum individuals (up to one year)

Second-highest priority groups

• Parents/legal guardians involved with Child Protective Services
• Parenting adults
• Youth

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Find answer to your questions about substance use treatment.

Does treatment work?

Yes. Research shows that treatment for substance use disorders works to reduce and stop use and the negative consequences. Addiction is a serious disease that not only harms individuals and families, but the entire community. The good news is that treatment and recovery programs have provided hope, healing and a new life to thousands of people in Washington and across the nation.

HCA invests in treatment services that are evidence-based, and delivered by certified treatment agencies. Certified agencies meet established standards for providing effective services, which includes individual treatment plans to meet specific needs. Specialized treatment services are available for adolescents, pregnant and parenting individuals (and their children), members of minority populations, and those with disabilities.

Treatment also saves public spending on emergency medical care, unemployment and criminal justice. Like any chronic health condition, early and ongoing treatment, and recovery support, are important for long-term health.

How can families and communities intervene and support people in recovery?

First, it's important to understand substance use disorder, and treat it with the same urgency as any other chronic and disabling disease. Anyone can develop a substance use disorder, but some people are at higher risk, such as those with a family history, and people who begin using alcohol or other drugs before their bodies and brains are developed. Next, help loved ones see that they need help, hold them accountable, and support them throughout treatment.

How do I get immediate help?

To get free referrals to treatment and recovery resources, and 24-hour emotional support, contact:

• Washington Recovery Help Line
  Phone: 1-866-789-1511
• Teen Link help line for teens
  Phone: 866-833-6546

 

How do I pay for treatment?

• Treatment for substance use disorders is covered in all private and employer-sponsored health plans under the Affordable Care Act.
• If you are enrolled in Apple Health (Medicaid), you will contact a treatment agency directly for setting up your care. You do not need a referral from your managed care plan, because this type of health care is funded directly by Medicaid.
• If you are low-income and need help paying for treatment, apply for Apple Health Washington Healthplanfinder.