Does Medicaid Cover PHP in Virginia? | Bold Recovery

Find out if Medicaid covers partial hospitalization programs in Virginia, what plans qualify, and how to verify your coverage before starting treatment
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April 4, 2026
2 minutes

Does Virginia Medicaid Cover Partial Hospitalization Programs?

Virginia Medicaid covers PHP treatment under the Substance Use Disorder (SUD) benefit, which was significantly expanded under the Addiction and Recovery Treatment Services (ARTS) program. ARTS was designed specifically to improve access to addiction treatment for Medicaid members—including PHP.

Under ARTS, Virginia Medicaid covers the following:

  • Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
  • Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
  • Outpatient therapy and counseling
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
  • Peer support services
  • Case management

PHP is a covered benefit. The key is confirming your specific plan covers the provider you choose.

Which Virginia Medicaid Plans Cover PHP?

Virginia Medicaid operates through several managed care organizations (MCOs). Each MCO covers PHP — but authorization requirements and processes vary.

Virginia Medicaid MCOs include:

Coverage is available across plans. The step that matters is prior authorization — your provider submits a request to your plan before treatment begins.

What Is Prior Authorization for PHP?

Prior authorization means your Medicaid plan reviews and approves your treatment before it starts. Your treatment provider — like Bold Recovery — handles this process directly with your insurer.

You will not be navigating this alone. Our team manages the authorization process on your behalf.

What If My Coverage Is Denied?

Denial is not the end. Virginia Medicaid members have the right to appeal coverage decisions. Common reasons for denial include missing documentation or medical necessity criteria that weren't clearly established in the initial request.

A strong clinical assessment and accurate documentation resolve most denials at the appeal stage. Bold Recovery's team has direct experience navigating this process.

Does Medicare Cover PHP in Virginia?

Medicare Part B also covers PHP when the program meets medical necessity criteria. If you have both Medicare and Medicaid — known as dual eligibility — your coverage is typically comprehensive, with Medicare as the primary payer.

Find Out Exactly What You're Covered For

Coverage questions are answered in one call. Bold Recovery's admissions team will verify your Medicaid benefits, confirm authorization requirements, and walk you through your out-of-pocket costs before you commit to anything.

📞 Call Now for a Free Consultation

You have coverage. Let's use it.

Take the First Step Today

If you’re ready to explore your options — or just want to ask questions — reach out today. We’ll guide you with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

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Call us 757-716-0067

or message us directly through our website

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Let’s take the next step — together.

  1. Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) — Addiction and Recovery Treatment Services (ARTS) program: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/behavioral-health/arts/
  2. 2. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) — Medicaid Behavioral Health Services overview: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/behavioral-health-services/index.html
  3. 3. SAMHSA — Partial Hospitalization Programs and levels of care: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/treatment
  4. 4. ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) — Levels of Care / PHP definition (Level 2.5): https://www.asam.org/asam-criteria
  5. 5. Virginia Medicaid Provider Manual — Behavioral Health Services / ARTS billing and authorization guidelines (DMAS).
  6. 6. Bold Recovery internal admissions and verification-of-benefits process (primary source).

Frequently Asked Questions

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