There are various levels of treatment and care for those who need treatment for addiction, mental health issues, and substance abuse. Some may require full-time residential treatment while others thrive with outpatient programs. There are even treatment programs that address inpatient dual diagnosis treatment.

Two popular types of treatment programs are partial hospitalization programs (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (IOP). Here is more about each program and how it works.

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program?

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a type of hospitalization that does not require a person to stay in residence or in-treatment. Instead, it is ideal for patients who fall under two types of criteria:

1. Step Down Patients. For some patients, they have finished residential treatment or an in-patient situation. This treatment may have been for mental health or substance abuse but they are at the level where a structured program meets their needs without in-patient treatment for the rest of their recovery. This allows them to better make the transition to a lifestyle that is sober and healthy.
2. Low Risk Patients. Some patients thrive in a PHP environment because they do not have the same level of needs or severity of issues s others. These patients need rehabilitation but their needs are not as severe as someone who requires 24/7 care.

The type of treatment a PHP is involves a structured program where a patient spends time at the facility during daytime hours – typically about six hours a day. There, they will undergo therapy as well as groups focused on skill-building and other helpful components of recovery and living sober. The patient then can leave the treatment center each day when the PHP is done.

For a person to qualify, they must not require constant 24/7 care. These patients must have a stable situation where they do not need a place to live or treatment after hours. This means that they should have a residence, transportation, and the ability to take care of their own meals during their time away from the facility. In some cases, transportation may be provided but this depends on the center and their specifications. Also, it is helpful to inquire with your insurance provider because they may provide transportation to the program while you are in treatment.

What is an Intensive Outpatient Program?

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is similar to a partial hospitalization program yet it is more flexible. Instead of a typical six-hour day, five days a week, an IOP provides stellar outpatient care with the patient’s home and work life taken into consideration. In many cases the patient may attend sessions at a more convenient level such as on the weekend or at night.

For example, instead of 30 hours a week, an intensive outpatient program maybe around 15 hours – sometimes even less. A person may go in the evening and then catch up on hours on the weekend. This allows them to lead a normal home and work life and still receive quality treatment to help them transition to a sober or mentally healthy lifestyle.

Just like a partial hospitalization program, this one is also dependent upon the individual. Those who a part of this program are similar to a PHP.

They are patients who are at a level that does not require 24-hour care or intensive treatment. These may be patients who have completed their in-patient recovery already or those who are at a low risk and do not have intense needs.

Examples of How They Are Different

While the treatment methods are the same, there are a few differences as you might have garnered. Here is an example:

A PHP or partial hospitalization program will be more of a full-time commitment. The days are usually Monday through Friday and typically six to eight hours a day.

For an intensive outpatient program (IOP) the program needs are met on a part-time basis on nights and weekends. The days are usually just three days per week and 10 to 15 hours total each week.

In some instances, there can be a transition from inpatient care to a partial hospitalization program, to an intensive outpatient program.

Everything depends on you and your therapist. The two of you can discuss your needs and come up with a plan that is ideal for your situation and needs. To find out more about what we offer in a partial hospitalization program or intensive outpatient treatment, check with our admissions team. Many people find that this program works well in helping them transition to a lifestyle that supports their recovery or mental health well-being.

What About Insurance?

With private insurance, if your private hospitalization program is covered, you typically have a co-pay that has to be taken care of each visit. Some insurance companies reimburse you if you have Out-of-Network Reimbursement Benefits. Of course, to find out for sure you will need to inquire with your insurance company or discuss payment options with the program’s counselor.

As far as Medicare:

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) may provide partial hospitalization coverage if you meet certain requirements and your doctor certifies that you would otherwise need inpatient treatment. 

You pay a percentage of the Medicare-approved amount for each service you get from a doctor or certain other qualified mental health professionals if your health care professional accepts Assignment. You also pay Coinsurance for each day of partial hospitalization services provided in a hospital outpatient setting or community mental health center, and the Part B Deductible applies.