The Costs of Going to Rehab in Johannesburg

Private care licenced and regulated rehabs is a far better cost alternative compared to the tragic state of government rehabs in South Africa

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Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg provides a comprehensive solution for individuals seeking addiction treatment, ensuring both quality care and financial feasibility. Medical aid or hospital plans typically cover 21 to 24 days of inpatient treatment per year, including medication, clinical costs, residential expenses, and consultations with health professionals. However, patients might need to make a co-payment to cover any shortfall between their medical aid coverage and actual treatment costs.

For those without medical aid or who have exhausted their benefits, Changes Rehab offers private rates and subsidised beds for those unable to pay the full fees. This makes it essential to discuss financial support options directly with the centre. As a licensed and accredited facility, Changes Rehab guarantees high standards of care, being approved by the Department of Social Development (DSD), the Department of Health (DOH), and the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF). These accreditations ensure adherence to rigorous regulatory requirements, providing assurance of quality care.

Choosing private care licenced and regulated rehabs is a far better cost alternative compared to the tragic state of government rehabs in South Africa, that very often lack the necessary resources and quality standards. Unregistered facilities pose similar risk in gambling a loved one’s life either with lack of oversight and standardised or poor delivery or irrelevant treatment protocols.

Timely intervention in addiction treatment at Changes Rehab is crucial. It prevents further health deterioration, supports mental health recovery, rebuilds strained relationships, and enhances the overall quality of life. Although treatment costs can be a concern, the long-term financial burden of untreated addiction—including healthcare costs, legal issues, and lost productivity—can be much higher. Seeking help early at Changes Rehab is a life-changing decision, offering a path to a healthier and more fulfilling future.

We offer a comprehensive range of treatment programs tailored to each person. These include medical detox, primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment, as well as relapse prevention care. The duration of each program is based on professional recommendations and the specific requirements of the individual. Treatment options vary in intensity and encompass inpatient care, long-term recovery, sober living, and outpatient services.

Here is a breakdown of the pricing:

  • 24-day inpatient program: R47,000.00
  • 28-day inpatient program: R52,000.00
  • 42-day inpatient program: R70,000.00
  • Secondary (long-term facility): R29,000.00
  • Tertiary (halfway housing with outpatient programs): R24,000.00

Actual addiction treatment, such as that provided by Changes Rehab, involves significant expenses due to the necessity of a multidisciplinary team. This includes 24-hour nursing staff, doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, registered counsellors, addiction counsellors, and interventionists.

These professionals are essential for addressing the complex needs of patients. Private care regulated rehabs like Changes Rehab are a far better cost alternative to often substandard government rehabs and pose fewer risks than unregistered facilities, which lack proper oversight. Investing in quality treatment is crucial not only for immediate health benefits but also for long-term savings by reducing healthcare costs, legal issues, and lost productivity associated with untreated addiction.

Assessment

A private clinical assessment clarifies risks, co-occurring concerns, and immediate next steps. We gather history, current symptoms, medications, and family input to match the right level of care. If admission is appropriate, we help you plan timelines and documentation so things move quickly. Learn how assessments work and what to expect on the day.

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Withdrawal is managed under medical oversight to reduce risks and improve comfort. Nursing support is available 24/7, with medication protocols tailored to clinical need. Detox prepares patients for therapeutic work—sleep, nutrition, and stabilisation come first. See what to bring, typical timelines, and how we coordinate pre-authorisation.

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The first 21–42 days focus on routine, safety, and daily therapy. Patients engage in individual and group sessions, psycho-education, and family contact where appropriate, supported by a multidisciplinary team. Primary care builds early momentum for change and prepares the plan for the next stage.

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Secondary care deepens the work on patterns, triggers, and trauma in a calmer setting. With structured days, therapeutic groups, and coached routines, patients practise skills that hold at home. Families are updated and involved appropriately. Explore typical lengths of stay and why secondary care improves long-term outcomes.

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For step-down care or when residential treatment isn’t possible, outpatient combines evening groups, one-to-one therapy, and accountability. The focus is integrating recovery into daily life—work, study, and family responsibilities—while maintaining structure and support.

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Sober living provides a structured, supportive home environment with curfews, chores, coached routines, and ongoing therapy. It bridges the gap between inpatient treatment and independent living, reinforcing accountability and community while returning to work or study.

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Patients learn how to spot risk early and respond fast—managing triggers, cravings, and high-risk situations. We build practical routines, communication plans, and support networks, with clear steps families can take too. See typical tools and how they’re practised before discharge.

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Continuing care sustains progress after discharge: scheduled check-ins, group support, individual sessions where needed, and a plan for setbacks. We coordinate with families and community resources to keep recovery anchored in daily life.

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The First 3–6 Weeks of Care

Consistent daily structure and sleep routine are early markers of stabilisation.

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Changes Addiction Rehab professional memberships and accreditations

Changes Addiction Rehab is licensed by the South African Department of Social Development (Practice No. 0470000537861) and the Department of Health, and is a registered detox facility and practice with the Board of Healthcare Funders. Our treatment programme is led by counsellors registered with the HPCSA, working alongside a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals under a unified practice. We are proud, standing members of the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa, the South African Council for Social Service Professions, the South African Medical Association, the South African Nursing Council and the South African Society of Psychiatrists. Changes Addiction Rehab has been in continuous professional operation since 2007, when it was founded by Sheryl Rahme, who has worked in the addiction treatment field since 1984. Our core clinical team brings over 100 years of combined professional addiction recovery experience.