Understand levels of care

When you explore structured addiction treatment, you’ll find a continuum of services designed to meet you where you are. From intensive day programs to outpatient medication-assisted treatment, each level of care plays a distinct role in recovery. Knowing how partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and MAT outpatient programs fit together can help you choose the right path.

Level of care Format Typical hours per week Cigna link
Partial hospitalization program (Full Day Program) Structured day treatment in a hospital or clinic 20+ partial hospitalization program cigna accepted
Intensive outpatient program (IOP) Therapy sessions multiple days per week, part-time 9–19 cigna accepted iop program for substance use
MAT outpatient program Medication management combined with counseling visits Varies cigna approved mat and therapy clinic

Partial hospitalization program

A partial hospitalization program offers a highly structured treatment day without requiring overnight stays. You’ll participate in individual therapy, group sessions, medical monitoring and holistic activities. This level often serves as a step-down from inpatient care or as an entry point when you need intensive support while returning home each evening.

  • 5–7 hours of therapy and activities daily
  • Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
  • Occupational and recreational therapies to build coping skills

By choosing an in-network Full Day Program, you benefit from reduced out-of-pocket costs and streamlined authorization. Our team at Pax Healing will guide you through the verification process to ensure your plan covers this level of care.

Intensive outpatient program

If your responsibilities at work or home prevent daily treatment, an intensive outpatient program can offer flexibility while maintaining accountability. In IOP, you attend therapy sessions three to five days per week, each lasting three to four hours.

Key components of IOP include:

  • Group therapy to share experiences and build peer support
  • Individual counseling to address underlying triggers
  • Family education sessions for improved communication

Cigna covers evidence-based IOP services, and you can verify your benefits by contacting our admissions team. To learn more about how Cigna supports intensive outpatient care, see our intensive outpatient treatment covered by cigna resource.

MAT outpatient program

Medication-assisted treatment combines FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine (Suboxone) or extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol) with counseling and behavioral therapy. As an MAT outpatient program, you’ll visit our clinic regularly for medication management and therapy while returning home each day.

  • Normalize brain chemistry and reduce cravings
  • Block euphoric effects of opioids for safer recovery
  • Manage withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision

An outpatient MAT service approved by Cigna minimizes the risk of overdose by up to 50 percent, making it a cornerstone of modern opioid use disorder care [1]. We also accept Medicaid for MAT services if you need an alternative coverage option—see our mat program covered by medicaid insurance page.

Explore MAT benefits

Choosing an outpatient MAT program provides a range of benefits designed to support lasting recovery. In addition to medication management, these programs integrate counseling and skill-building to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

Evidence-based approach

MAT is grounded in decades of research demonstrating that combining medication with therapy yields better outcomes than counseling alone. You’ll work with our licensed clinicians to develop an individualized plan that may include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and peer support groups.

Reduce overdose risk

One of the most critical advantages of MAT is its ability to lower the chances of relapse and fatal overdose. By stabilizing brain chemistry and curbing intense cravings, medications like Suboxone and Vivitrol create a safer foundation for you to engage fully in counseling and life goals.

Maintain daily life

An outpatient format allows you to fulfill work, school or family responsibilities while receiving treatment. You’ll follow a schedule that balances therapy, medical appointments and personal obligations. This flexibility supports long-term engagement and reduces the disruption that residential programs sometimes bring [2].

Understanding how Cigna covers your treatment can ease anxiety and help you plan effectively. Here’s what you need to know about network status, authorizations and cost sharing.

In-network care

Staying in network is crucial to limit out-of-pocket expenses. When you choose a Cigna approved treatment center like Pax Healing, you benefit from negotiated rates and fewer billing surprises. We will confirm your plan details and ensure your services are processed as in-network whenever possible.

Authorization process

For higher intensity services like Full Day Program or IOP, Cigna typically requires a face-to-face assessment by our clinical staff. We’ll provide the clinical documentation and submit the authorization request on your behalf, following the medical necessity guidelines of the ASAM Criteria and MCG care standards [3].

Cost sharing

Your cost share may include a deductible, coinsurance or copay based on your plan’s design. We’ll review these details with you before treatment begins so you can make informed financial decisions. If you’re concerned about affordability, ask us about sliding fee options or payment assistance programs available at Pax Healing.

Choose Pax Healing

At Pax Healing, we’ve designed our services to support you every step of the way. Here’s why adults in Massachusetts trust us for Full Day Program, IOP and MAT.

Integrated treatment model

Our continuum of care allows you to move seamlessly between levels as your needs evolve. Whether you start in Full Day Program for intensive stabilization or jump directly into outpatient MAT, you’ll benefit from consistent clinical oversight and a unified treatment philosophy.

Licensed clinical team

All our therapists, medical providers and support staff hold state licensure and specialize in substance use disorder treatment. You’ll receive compassionate care grounded in evidence-based modalities and continuous training.

Continuity of care

Your recovery plan follows you from initial assessment through aftercare planning. We coordinate with case managers, primary care providers and family members to ensure your treatment stays on track even as you step down to lower levels of care.

Prepare for treatment

Getting ready for treatment can feel daunting, but our admissions process guides you smoothly from inquiry to first day on campus.

Intake and assessment

You’ll begin with a comprehensive evaluation covering medical history, substance use patterns and co-occurring mental health concerns. This assessment sets the foundation for your individualized plan.

Individualized planning

Based on your assessment, we’ll create a customized schedule that may combine Full Day Program, IOP and MAT sessions. You’ll understand the goals, duration and expected milestones before you commit.

Family involvement

Recovery often depends on a supportive environment. We offer family education and therapy sessions to help loved ones adjust to new dynamics, address misconceptions and develop healthy communication strategies [3].

Verify insurance and start

You’ve taken an important first step by researching your options. Now it’s time to verify benefits and schedule your assessment.

Submit verification

Contact our admissions team or complete the online form with your Cigna or Medicaid information. We’ll handle the benefit check and clarify any questions about coverage.

Schedule assessment

Once your benefits are confirmed, we’ll arrange a face-to-face intake assessment at a convenient time. During this meeting, you’ll meet your clinical care coordinator and review your personalized plan.

Begin your journey

With authorizations in place and your schedule set, you’re ready to embark on your path to recovery. Our supportive environment and evidence-based services will empower you to build a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Take the next step today—verify your benefits and join Pax Healing’s community of hope and healing.

References

  1. (Valle Vista Health System)
  2. (Recovery at the Crossroads)
  3. (Cigna)

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