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FMLA Guide for Addiction Treatment

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that provides eligible employees the right to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specific family and medical reasons, including treatment for substance use disorders. At Inner Voyage Recovery Center, we understand the importance of accessing addiction treatment without the fear of losing your job. This guide will help you understand how FMLA applies to addiction treatment and the steps you can take to utilize this important benefit.
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What is FMLA?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) was enacted in 1993 to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities by allowing them to take reasonable unpaid leave for specific family and medical reasons.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for FMLA leave, an employee must meet the following criteria:

  1. Work for a Covered Employer: The employer must have at least 50 employees within a 75-mile radius.
  2. Have Worked for the Employer for 12 Months: Employees must have been employed for at least 12 months.
  3. Have Worked 1,250 Hours in the Past 12 Months: Employees must have logged at least 1,250 hours of service during the 12 months preceding the leave.
  4. Work at a Location Where the Employer Has 50 or More Employees: Employees must work at a site where the employer has 50 or more employees within 75 miles.
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Table of Contents

Author: Emily Rowe, LCSW, Clinical Director
Medical Reviewer: Kendra Krieg Psych NP, NPI

Qualifying Reasons for FMLA Leave

FMLA allows employees to take leave for the following reasons:

  • The birth and care of a newborn child.
  • The placement of a child for adoption or foster care.
  • To care for an immediate family member (spouse, child, or parent) with a serious health condition.
  • To take medical leave when the employee is unable to work due to a serious health condition.
  • Treatment for Substance Use Disorders: This includes leave for rehabilitation programs, detoxification, or therapy for substance use disorders, including addiction to drugs like opioids, alcohol, and other substances.

How FMLA Applies to Addiction Treatment Using FMLA for Rehab

FMLA can be a valuable resource for individuals seeking inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation for addiction. Eligible employees can take leave to attend treatment programs, which can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the addiction and the type of program.

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Protecting Your Job

One of the primary benefits of FMLA is job protection. Employees are entitled to return to their same job or an equivalent position with the same pay, benefits, and working conditions after taking FMLA leave. This means that you can focus on your recovery without the stress of job loss hanging over your head.

Steps to Take FMLA Leave for Addiction Treatment

  • Step 1: Determine Eligibility The first step is to assess your eligibility for FMLA leave based on your employment situation. Check if your employer meets the requirements and whether you have been employed long enough and worked the requisite hours.
  • Step 2: Notify Your Employer If you determine that you are eligible for FMLA leave, you should notify your employer as soon as possible.
    How to Notify: It is advisable to put your request in writing, specifying your need for leave for addiction treatment. Timing: While 30 days’ notice is preferred, FMLA allows for shorter notice in emergencies.
  • Step 3: Coordinate with Inner Voyage When seeking treatment at Inner Voyage, it is essential to communicate your needs.
  • Medical Certification: : Your employer may require you to provide medical documentation from Inner Voyage, confirming your need for treatment and the expected duration of your leave. Collaboration: Our admissions team at Inner Voyage is available to help coordinate with your employer and provide the necessary documentation to support your FMLA request.

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FMLA and Insurance Coverage for Addiction Treatment

Understanding how FMLA interacts with your health insurance is crucial. While FMLA guarantees job protection during your leave, it does not directly affect your health insurance coverage.

Continued Coverage

Drug addiction can affect the lives of those struggling and their loved ones. Our programs aim to help clients quit drugs and deal with the underlying causes of addiction. In this way, they can sustain long-term recovery.

Insurance Verification

Before starting treatment, it’s beneficial to verify your insurance benefits to understand what is covered and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

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Help is Here When You're Ready

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use or other mental health issues, Inner Voyage Recovery can help. Request a callback below to receive care and support you can trust.

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Why Choose Inner Voyage for Your Recovery Journey?

Comprehensive Treatment Programs

At Inner Voyage Recovery Center, we offer a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals seeking recovery from addiction. Our programs include:

Detoxification Services:

Safe and supervised detox to manage withdrawal symptoms. Inpatient Rehabilitation: Intensive treatment in a structured environment. Intensive Outpatient Programs: Flexible treatment options that allow clients to continue their daily responsibilities.

Supportive Environment

We provide a compassionate and supportive environment where individuals can focus on healing. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to guiding you through every step of your recovery journey.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Each client at Inner Voyage receives an individualized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and challenges. We understand that recovery is a personal journey and tailor our services to help you achieve your goals.

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Common Questions About FMLA and Addiction Treatment

Get answers to commonly asked questions.

FMLA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in a 12-month period
for qualifying reasons, including addiction treatment.

Yes, you will typically need to provide a medical certification from your healthcare provider that supports your need for leave.

If your FMLA request is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. It is advisable to
review the specific reasons for denial and seek clarification from your HR department.

Yes, FMLA allows for intermittent leave, which means you can take leave in smaller blocks of
time, depending on your treatment needs.

Contact Inner Voyage Recovery Center

If you’re looking for more information, connect with our team by phone, email, or through our online form. We’re here to answer your questions, talk through your options, and support you as you begin your path toward lasting recovery.

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