What Are Partial Hospitalization Programs Like?

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There are many levels of care offered by addiction treatment centers. While two of the most common include inpatient and outpatient, another integral level of care is called partial hospitalization. Partial hospitalization programs, also called day programs, are able to treat substance use disorder, mental health conditions, and behavioral health issues without requiring a residential commitment. They are more intensive than outpatient but more flexible than inpatient, making them a great option for people who may struggle with the transition from one level of care to another.

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program?

A partial hospitalization program, often referred to as PHP, is a level of care in addiction treatment that provides patients with services in a structured environment without complete disruption to their lives. While enrolled in PHP, individuals can leave at home, in a sober living, or in a residential setting while attending therapy sessions during the day.

PHP is a full-time commitment. Treatment runs 5-7 days a week, from late morning to afternoon. It is very similar to inpatient rehab, however, patients are not required to live at the treatment facility. Most PHPs have the same amenities and treatment outcomes like higher levels of care. It is a popular option for people leaving detox or inpatient rehab.

What Services Are Offered in PHP?

PHP is considered a step-down from inpatient treatment, but a more intensive level of care than intensive outpatient (IOP). Patients engage in similar therapies and activities as they do in residential treatment programs. Some of the services and amenities offered in partial hospitalization include:

  • Comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning for substance abuse and co-occurring disorders
  • Individual, group, and family therapy sessions
  • Medication-assisted treatment options
  • Evidence-based counseling (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Relapse Prevention Therapy (RPT), and more)
  • Nutritional and recreational support
  • Introduction to 12-Step programs and other self-help groups
  • Holistic therapies (art, yoga, meditation, equine therapy)
  • Mental health counseling and treatment

Who is a Good Candidate for Partial Hospitalization?

PHP isn’t for everyone, especially those who need 24/7 supervision or intensive detox services. However, there are many people who can benefit from PHP, including those who:

  • Have already completed medical detox
  • Are transitioning out of residential or inpatient treatment
  • Have sober, supportive, and stable housing
  • Exhibit a willingness and desire to stay sober and actively participate in treatment

PHP programs are also equipped to treat people with co-occurring mental health conditions as long as they meet the above criteria.

How Long Does PHP Last?

Most partial hospitalization programs last 15-30 days. PHP is generally designed to be a short-term treatment option to help patients transition from inpatient rehab to outpatient. Fortunately, they are intensive enough to provide individualized care, so treatment plans can always be extended, if necessary.

The exact length of PHP depends on many factors, such as:

  • A person’s progress in treatment
  • The severity of a person’s addiction
  • Whether or not the patient has a co-occurring disorder
  • Current life situations that may affect a person’s ability to stay sober at a lower level of care (divorce, loss, trauma, etc.)

How Much Do Partial Hospitalization Programs Cost?

PHPs are generally less expensive than inpatient but more expensive than IOP and outpatient. Usually, the higher the level of care, the higher the cost of the program. However, insurance companies are required to provide coverage for mental and behavioral healthcare.

There are many variables that affect the cost of partial hospitalization. These include:

  • Location of the facility
  • Amenities available
  • Whether or not the program is in-network with the client’s health insurance
  • Type of program (luxury, state-sponsored, court-ordered, etc.)
  • Cost of medications/medical care
  • Length of the program

The best way to understand how much PHP costs is to speak with a health insurance provider or admissions coordinator. Either of these individuals can verify your insurance and benefits to give you an estimate.

Find a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) in New Jersey Today

At New Jersey Addiction Interventions, our dedicated addiction specialists can help answer all of your questions about partial hospitalization. Whether you need to find a PHP in your area, need to find one that accepts your insurance, or have more questions about how PHP works, we’re here to help. And, to ensure the success of your treatment, our counselors will take the time to examine your past history, treat your underlying conditions, and help you build a strong foundation in your recovery. Give us a call today to get started.

Medically Reviewed: June 11, 2021

Dr Ashley

Medical Reviewer

Chief Editor

About

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Dr Ashley Murray obtained her MBBCh Cum Laude in 2016. She currently practices in the public domain in South Africa. She has an interest in medical writing and has a keen interest in evidence-based medicine.


All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

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