Can U.S. Residents Attend Rehab in Canada?

Can U.S. Residents Attend Rehab in Canada?

• Mandy Sandhu
• 16 Dec 2021

Canada has become one of the world’s top medical destinations due to the relative affordability, accessibility, and quality of care available in the country. It’s not unheard of for international residents, especially neighbouring people from the United States, to come and get professional medical attention at Canadian rehab centers.

But can an American undergo rehab in Canada? The answer is yes. This article talks about everything you need to know—benefits, requirements, and what to expect—if you are considering Canadian addiction rehab for yourself or a loved one. 

The Benefits of Getting Rehab in Canada 

While the Canadian healthcare system isn’t perfect, it is still highly regarded worldwide. From advanced treatments and surgical procedures to substance use rehab, here are some advantages Americans can enjoy when they choose to get rehab in Canada.

Cost Savings

Understandably, addiction recovery programs can be expensive, depending on the type and length of treatment, facility location, and amenities. 

U.S. drug rehab centers can range from $5,000 to $80,000 for residential treatment, depending on the length of stay. In Canada, non-residents may not be entitled to the perks of our universal healthcare system but paying out-of-pocket can still be relatively cheaper. For instance, the cost of private drug rehab in Ontario may range from $10,000 to $30,000 for a 30-day program. It’s a steep but relatively reasonable price to pay considering the latest research-based treatments and innovative therapies implemented for each patient.

Access to Better Options

Long waitlists saddle government addiction facilities, but private Canadian rehab centers almost always have an available slot, perfect for high-risk clients who require urgent care. In addition, many Americans prefer to get rehab in Canada because of the impressive quality of facilities, amenities, and patient care available. This doesn’t mean that there are no excellent options for drug rehab facilities in the U.S., but they, unfortunately, are usually quite costly.

Proximity and Familiarity

The U.S. and Canada are neighbouring countries, speaking the same language and sharing similar cultures and traditions. Relatively, it won’t take a lot of adjustment to undergo rehab across the border. You can go back and forth easily and friends and family have the option of hopping on a quick flight when they miss you. In addition, it’s feasible to go for an ocular visit when you’re still in the process of scouting potential treatment providers. It offers convenience and comforting familiarity for individuals considering Canadian addiction rehab centers. 

Outdoor Addiction Recovery

Signing up with a Canadian addiction rehab facility gives you a chance to experience the Great White North’s breathtaking sceneries. Studies have established that spending time outdoors can profoundly affect people’s well-being, including their physical, emotional, and mental health.

On top of that, because you are technically going out of the country to seek treatment, it also allows you to take a step back and hopefully break free from toxic environments and unlearn unhealthy coping mechanisms. This is most evident in patients checking in for residential addiction treatment.

Key Considerations Before Checking In to Canadian Addiction Rehab 

A drug rehab center’s competence and compassion play a pivotal role in ensuring your successful recovery. It’s essential to do your own extensive research before taking the plunge and checking into any rehab in Canada. 

Here are some questions to guide and help you pick the ideal treatment facility: 

• What type of addiction treatment do you need? (Outpatient vs. Residential)
• What is your budget, and how much are you willing to invest into additional features?
• Do they have the proper accreditations, licenses, and permits required for Canadian rehab centers to operate?
• Do you have a specific location in mind? Would you like to be near a central business district like Toronto or somewhere more scenic and suburban like Aurora? 
• Do you have concurrent disorders or other medical conditions? If so, is this Canadian facility capable of addressing or attending to your specific needs?

How to Prepare: Travel Requirements for Canada 

Current COVID-19 Restrictions

Like other countries around the globe, Canada also has its requirements for international visitors. Due to the complex nature of the pandemic, travel restrictions may be subject to change from time to time. As of December 15, 2021, only fully vaccinated foreign nationals can enter the country. They are expected to show the following:

• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination

Without it, you won’t be allowed entry into the country unless you are eligible for an exemption, such as a medical inability to be vaccinated.

• A negative molecular test (PCR) 

The test must be taken at least 72 hours before your scheduled flight or arrival at a land border crossing. Rapid antigen test results are not accepted.

Please visit Canada’s official website for more information on travel entry qualifications and requirements.

No Criminal Record

Americans with a standing criminal record may be denied entry, including illegal possession, trafficking, and other drug-related types of offences, which may be relevant for those seeking rehab in Canada. 

Freedom From Addiction: One of the Best Private Canadian Rehab Centers

Freedom From Addiction is one of the most innovative recovery homes in the country that follows evidence-based approaches. Located in the Aurora-King City area, just north of Toronto, our rehab center offers a tranquil healing environment. 

At Freedom From Addiction, we offer comprehensive services to address different types of substance addictions and individual needs, including:

• Medically Guided Drug/Alcohol Detox
• Drug Addiction Treatment
• Alcohol Addiction Treatment 
• Co-occurring Disorders Treatment
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• Family Program
• Individual and Group Counselling
• Relapse Prevention

When it comes to rehab in Canada, you can rely on Freedom From Addiction’s highly qualified and dedicated team of medical experts and addiction specialists to help you or a loved one achieve sobriety.

Contact us today to learn more.