Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) can provide comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder treatments without the need for hospitalization. Virtual IOPs offer the same care through virtual methods such as online video calls. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of virtual healthcare has grown significantly, with many benefiting from this treatment model.
This article explains what virtual intensive outpatient programs entail and who would be suited to this type of treatment.
- Virtual IOPs provide intensive interventions to people requiring mental health and substance use disorder treatments using online or telephone communication methods.
- Many insurance providers will cover some or all of the cost of a virtual IOP.
- Virtual IOPs can be well suited to people who cannot travel to appointments, need flexibility with their treatment times, and require extensive support and intervention to help manage their well-being.
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What is a virtual intensive outpatient program?
A virtual intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides extensive mental health and behavioral treatments via virtual means such as video calls, telephone, or online programs.
IOPs are more intensive than typical outpatient care and provide a lower level of care than inpatient treatment. These programs are suited to people who do not require round-the-clock care or monitoring but benefit from a higher level of care than is provided during an outpatient program. [1]
In-person IOPs would typically involve attending at least nine hours of individual and group treatment interventions at a clinic or facility. Virtual IOPs can offer the same service but allow individuals to join sessions while remaining at home. [2]
Virtual IOPs can be utilized to treat mental health conditions and substance use disorders. During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual treatments became necessary due to social distancing and decreased access to services. Since then, they have increasingly become a standard form of providing treatment for many. [3]
Are virtual IOPs effective?
Some studies have determined that virtual IOPs can have positive outcomes for substance use disorder treatment. Compared to in-person care, virtual IOPs can provide equal outcomes. [4][5]
Some people may prefer virtual appointments, helping to improve their willingness to engage in treatment. However, others may find challenges with this type of treatment, which can impact their outcomes. [3][6]
Although the use of virtual IOPs has increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic, there are limited studies on their effectiveness and the factors that can influence outcomes. Large-scale research is needed to determine their effectiveness in comparison to in-person treatments. [4][7]
How does virtual IOP work?
Virtual IOPs involve a schedule that takes place over several days of the week, for several hours per day. An example might involve five sessions per week for three hours each. These sessions are often planned at the beginning or end of the day so people can engage in these interventions before or after work or school.
This schedule will often involve a range of interventions, including: [2][6]
- Group therapy
- Skills development
- Individual therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Motivational interviewing
- Family therapy
- Psychoeducation
- Recovery support and relapse prevention planning
Each person will have a case manager who assesses their treatment needs, supports and monitors them throughout treatment, and makes referrals to additional services as required. Treatment reviews and check-ins may occur weekly, to help monitor progress and make any necessary changes to treatment plans. [2]
Treatment sessions will often take place over a videoconference program, on which individuals and groups can communicate with one another and with professionals.
Benefits of online IOPs
Online IOPs can provide many benefits, including: [2][4][6]
- They don’t require travel, saving time and money
- They can provide flexibility with appointment times, allowing people to continue with their usual routines
- They can be convenient for people who need to stay at home for childcare or other responsibilities
- They can improve treatment engagement and prevent no-shows
- There is a wider range of clinicians to choose from, rather than being limited to those in the area
- They can provide a routine for individuals requiring consistent support
- People can feel empowered to manage their own time, treatment, and recovery process
- People may feel more comfortable accessing online treatment instead of in person, as it may reduce feelings of stigmatization, fear, or uncertainty
Challenges with online IOPs
Some of the potential challenges people may face with an online IOP include: [3][4]
- Some may find it more difficult to build therapeutic relationships with clinicians over a telephone or computer instead of face-to-face
- Weak internet connections may interfere with communication
- Maintaining privacy may be difficult for people living with several family members or housemates
- Some people may not have access to computers or telephones or may struggle with using technology
Who should consider a virtual IOP?
A virtual IOP might be suitable for someone who: [2][6]
- Has utilized inpatient treatment and requires a continued high level of care to help transition to an outpatient program
- Has not yet received treatment and requires more intensive care than is provided by an outpatient program
- Cannot travel to appointments due to limited transport, time, or finances
- Wants to receive intensive treatment while continuing with their usual responsibilities and routines
Related: Inpatient vs. Outpatient Care
Cost and insurance coverage for virtual IOP
The cost of a virtual IOP can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the person’s condition, specific treatment requirements, and the duration of treatment. This cost can range from $1000 to $10,000. Many insurance providers will cover some or all of this cost, although this will vary. [8]
How to prepare for IOP sessions
People who engage in virtual IOP sessions will need to ensure:
- They have a strong internet connection or phone line
- They have a designated space that will allow them privacy and quiet to engage in sessions
- They can be uninterrupted during treatment times
- They can make notes about techniques or skills they learn
- They can charge their device
Finding a virtual IOP
When choosing a virtual IOP provider, it can be helpful to ask about:
- Costs and insurance coverage
- Reviews from past service users
- What type of conditions or substance use they typically treat
- Accreditations and qualifications of staff
- Session times
Recovered offers a directory for people looking for rehab treatments, which can help you find service providers that offer online IOPs.
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