Understanding Medicare and addiction treatment

Using Medicare for drug and alcohol rehab at The Hader Clinic

Medicare is an essential part of Australia's healthcare system, but it doesn’t cover private residential rehab. If you need inpatient addiction treatment, there are alternative funding options to help you start recovery without delay.

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Government-funded programs may help cover costs

Alternative funding options are available

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Compassionate, expert care for your recovery

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Comprendre vos options de financement

What Medicare does and doesn’t cover for rehab

Medicare may cover visits to GPs and specialists, where individuals can receive assessments, referrals, and mental health treatment plans. Therapy sessions, such as psychological counselling, may also be subsidised under Medicare’s Better Access initiative. Some addiction-related medications are available at a reduced cost under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). In limited cases, public hospital services may provide medically supervised detox or brief interventions.

However, Medicare cannot be used to fund any residential or inpatient services at The Hader Clinic — this includes detox, rehab, or extended stays; individuals who require medical supervision during withdrawal may need to seek alternative funding options. Most allied health services outside of mental health plans, such as specialised addiction counselling and holistic therapies, are also not covered.

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Exploring alternative funding options

How to access addiction treatment without private insurance

Even without Medicare, there are still accessible funding options to get the support you need. The Australian government funds a range of programs designed to help people access addiction treatment.

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Government-funded support programs

These programs provide free or low-cost addiction treatment for eligible individuals:

  • State & Territory Public Rehab Services: Some government-funded facilities offer addiction treatment at reduced costs or free of charge.
  • Low-Income Support Programs: If you meet certain financial criteria, you may qualify for assistance.
  • Other Government Assistance: Depending on your circumstances, additional funding bodies may be able to help cover rehab costs.

Autres options de financement pour la réadaptation

If you're not eligible for government-funded rehab, there are alternative ways to fund treatment at The Hader Clinic:

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Vos prochaines étapes

Comment trouver la bonne option de financement pour votre séjour en rééducation

étape
1

Parlez avec notre équipe

We’ll assess your situation and explain our low-income options, payment plans and super access funding.

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2

Apply for funding assistance

If you qualify for government or alternative funding, we can support you through the application process.

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3

Commencez votre rétablissement

Once funding is arranged, we’ll help you start your treatment as soon as possible.

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Comprendre les coûts

À quoi s'attendre lorsque l'on finance soi-même sa rééducation

Medicare won’t cover inpatient rehab, but it may support mental health care before or after your stay. We’ll help clarify how it fits into your care and what to plan for.

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If you’re ready to explore funding options for addiction treatment, we’re here to help. Click below to get an assessment, book a chat, or contact us directly.

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Témoignages et témoignages de clients

Many people enter rehab without private health insurance, and we’ve helped them find funding solutions that work. Recovery is possible — see how others have taken the first step.

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Accréditation et normes

Nous répondons à des exigences d'accréditation strictes, garantissant ainsi à chaque patient un traitement professionnel et fondé sur des preuves, dans un environnement sûr et favorable.

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Our treatment setting

Recovery at The Hader Clinic is delivered through a carefully coordinated model of care, all based in Geelong. Our licensed private hospital provides medically supervised detox in a secure, supportive environment, helping clients stabilise with full clinical oversight. From there, care progresses into structured rehabilitation focused on routine, therapy, and holistic support to build lasting foundations for recovery. This connected approach allows clients to move forward with continuity, confidence, and the right level of care at each stage.

Geelong

Medically supported detox, inpatient residential rehabilitation, and transitional housing programs.

6-8 Townsend Road, St Albans Park VIC 3219
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If you’re unsure about your funding options for drug and alcohol rehab, we’re here to help. Contact us today to discuss how we can make treatment accessible to you.

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Questions fréquentes

What mental health services does Medicare actually cover?

Medicare can help cover a range of mental health services that may support your recovery journey. This includes:

  • Mental Health Care Plans (MHCPs): Rebated sessions with a psychologist or psychiatrist (up to 10 per year)
  • The Better Access Initiative: Subsidised therapy sessions for mental health support
  • Chronic Disease Management Plans (CDMs): Rebates for long-term conditions, which may include addiction
  • Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS): Reduced-cost medications related to addiction treatment
  • Medicare Safety Net: Helps reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses for people who need frequent care

These supports can be accessed through your GP and may play an important role alongside or before residential treatment.

Can I use Medicare to help with pre-treatment support?

Yes. While Medicare doesn’t cover private residential rehab, it can help with some of the care you might need before treatment begins. This includes GP consultations, therapy sessions under a mental health plan, or support for managing addiction-related medications. These services can help you prepare for treatment while you explore funding options.

What are my options if I only have Medicare and no savings?

If you don’t have private health insurance or savings, you still have options. You might be eligible for:

  • Public rehab through state-funded services
  • No-interest or low-interest healthcare loans
  • Superannuation access under compassionate grounds
  • Payment plans tailored to your financial situation
  • Government hardship assistance or concession-based support

Our team can help you explore all available options and find a funding solution that fits your needs.

Can I use Medicare for addiction counselling or outpatient drug rehab services?

Yes. Medicare may subsidise mental health services, including counselling, under a Mental Health Treatment Plan from a GP. This can help with addiction-related therapy.

Are there public rehab options that Medicare can help with?

Medicare does not fully cover public rehab, but state-funded programs may offer free or low-cost services. Availability varies, so it’s best to check locally.

Can I combine Medicare with other funding options?

Yes. Some people use Medicare for GP visits and therapy while funding rehab through payment plans, superannuation, or government support programs.

What if I need urgent treatment but can't afford it?

If private rehab isn’t an option, consider state-funded detox programs or crisis support services. We can also help you explore payment options to start sooner.

How do I find out what funding I qualify for?

Our team can guide you through eligibility checks for Medicare benefits, state-funded programs, and financial assistance to help you access treatment sooner.