Inpatient Vs. Outpatient Rehab: Understanding the Differences

What Is Inpatient Rehab?

Inpatient rehab facilities are most appropriate for those recovering from addiction and offer 24-hour care for a certain period. A typical course of treatment ranges between 10-30 days, depending on the patient, their recovery journey, and the program.

Therapy in Inpatient Rehab

Some rehab programs feature different types of therapy. For example, centers may advertise specialized forms of therapy like art therapy, equine therapy, or more holistic treatments like yoga and meditation. More clinical treatment programs might focus on “evidence-based practices,” like medication-assisted treatment (MAT), that combine behavioral therapy and medications like methadone or suboxone.

Levels of Care in Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient treatments offer different levels of care. Higher-level facilities typically treat those with more severe addictions and include a medical focus, more doctors and nurses on staff, medically monitored detox services, and medication-assisted treatments.¹

While high-level facilities may be restrictive (i.e., locked doors and windows, security, and more safety features), lower levels are better suited for those who require less medical intervention. Lower levels of inpatient care tend to focus more on individual and group therapy rather than medically monitored treatments.¹

Residential Treatment Centers

Residential treatment centers are technically inpatient treatment programs but are often separately categorized because they offer a less formal treatment setting. Residential treatment programs provide longer-term stays ranging between 30 days and 12 months, sometimes longer. After treatment, some people may transition to a sober living environment before returning to daily responsibilities while maintaining sobriety.

What Is Outpatient Treatment?

Outpatient rehab is a treatment that includes group therapy, family therapy, or individual therapy. These facilities tend to be staffed by trained addiction counselors and professionals.

Partial Hospitalization Program

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) offers the highest level of outpatient treatment, providing roughly 20 or more weekly hours of structured therapy.¹

Generally, PHPs are a step-down for those transitioning from inpatient settings. Individuals in PHP programs often complete group and individual therapy, sometimes in addition to meetings with medical professionals who help comprise their treatment team.

Intensive Outpatient Program

Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) typically include six or more hours of therapy a week.¹ IOPs usually offer group, individual, or family counseling sessions. Those enrolled in these outpatient treatment programs learn and practice skills that help them remain sober while relying on group members for support, encouragement, and accountability.

IOPs may also provide periodic appointments with a psychiatrist or other medical professional, as in the case of programs specializing in treating opioid use disorder. Medications help prevent withdrawals and cravings to facilitate recovery.

Outpatient Counseling

Outpatient rehab also exists as standard outpatient counseling. This type of rehab involves meeting with a licensed therapist for one hour once or twice a week. In these sessions, a person receives support as they work toward goals, learn new coping skills, and address underlying issues.

Inpatient Vs. Outpatient Rehab: What Is the Difference?

There are many differences between inpatient and outpatient treatment. Inpatient rehab is better suited for individuals who need more intensive treatment or structured environments. Patients receive 24-hour support rather than the less frequent services offered through outpatient treatments.

Below are the differences between inpatient and outpatient treatment:¹

Inpatient Vs. Outpatient: Pros & Cons

As with any treatment, inpatient and outpatient treatment have advantages and drawbacks. Everyone in alcohol or drug addiction recovery has different treatment needs, and some people may benefit more from one rehab setting than another.

Benefits of inpatient rehab for addiction include:¹

• Medical assistance with withdrawal
• Drug and alcohol-free environments for those otherwise unable to avoid substances
• Support for those with serious health or mental health issues that impact recovery
• Reduced risk of overdosing for those with a history of overdoses

Drawbacks of inpatient rehab for addiction include:

• Insurance may not cover treatment
• Inability to fulfill family, work, and life responsibilities
• Lack of local inpatient treatment options
• Highly structured, restricted care and environment

Benefits of outpatient treatment for addiction include:

• Less intensive treatment options
• Offers regular drug screenings
• Includes a mix of group and individual therapy
• Ability to maintain life responsibilities
• Flexible schedules available
• Comprehensive treatment with medication and therapy

Drawbacks of outpatient treatment for addiction include:

• Higher risk of relapse
• Higher risk of overdose
• Lack of medical support when experiencing withdrawal
• High deductibles or lack of coverage
• Concerns about confidentiality or privacy in group settings

Inpatient Vs. Outpatient Treatment: Which Is More Effective?

Different people benefit from different treatments. Previous research on whether inpatient rehab is more effective than outpatient rehab has failed to provide a concrete yes or no. The answer, it seems, is highly individualized.

Research on whether inpatient rehab is more effective than outpatient rehab has failed to provide a concrete answer. People with more severe addictions appear to benefit more from inpatient treatment and vice versa.² However, one study shows that, for most individuals, outpatient treatment programs were just as effective as inpatient programs.³

One of the most significant factors in treatment effectiveness is what occurs after programs end. Those who complete either inpatient or outpatient treatment are more vulnerable to relapse if they do not receive follow-up care. Those who diligently attend ongoing counseling and addiction support groups are more likely to sustain recovery.^3,4

Is Inpatient or Outpatient Rehab Right for Me?

Ultimately, people should apply what they know about their situation to determine which treatment is right for them. Inpatient and outpatient treatment options can both be effective, but certain factors make one more appropriate.

Below are factors to consider when choosing between inpatient and outpatient rehab:

• Amount of time and money for treatment: Inpatient and intensive outpatient treatment programs are generally more expensive and restrictive than simple outpatient counseling. Consider your responsibilities and insurance options before choosing which program is best.
• Severity of the addiction: Inpatient rehab may be better suited for those at risk of medically dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
• Goals for recovery: Individuals who want to abstain from drugs and alcohol may benefit more from structured inpatient rehab programs. Those wishing to moderate their use may be better suited for outpatient treatment.
• Level of support needed: Those with strong support networks whom they can count on may need less intensive treatment than those without these supports.
• Past recovery efforts: Inpatient rehab may be the best treatment route for those unable to maintain sobriety in outpatient settings.

Final Thoughts

Inpatient and outpatient rehab are both beneficial programs for those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Each facility will offer different services, so consider your individual needs before determining which treatment is best for you.