Detox Programs in San Bernardino That Accept IEHP Insurance
When you or someone you love is in the grip of addiction, the window of willingness to get help can be short. The last thing you need is to be stuck on hold, trying to figure out if your insurance will cover the treatment you desperately need.
For residents of the Inland Empire, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) is a lifeline. But navigating the specific benefits for substance use—often referred to as “Drug Medi-Cal”—can be confusing. Many members don’t realize that their plan covers a wide range of addiction treatment services, including medically managed detoxification.
This guide cuts through the red tape. We have verified specific detox programs in San Bernardino that accept IEHP insurance and outlined the exact steps you need to take to access care today.
How IEHP and “Drug Medi-Cal” Work Together
If you are an IEHP member, your substance use disorder (SUD) services are typically managed through a partnership with the county. In San Bernardino County, this system is known as the Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS).
Here is what this means for you in plain English:
- You Have Coverage: Addiction treatment is an “essential health benefit.” You cannot be denied care because of a pre-existing condition or because you have relapsed before.
- No Cost to You: For most IEHP/Medi-Cal members, there are zero copays and zero deductibles for approved detox and rehab services.
- County Management: While you have an IEHP card, the “network” of rehabs is often managed directly by the San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health. This is why you might see the term “County Contracted Provider.”

This video from Stanford Medicine explains the clinical importance of the detoxification process you are about to begin:
Verified Detox Centers in San Bernardino That Accept IEHP
Finding a facility that actually has a contract with the county is the biggest hurdle. The following facilities are verified providers that work with the San Bernardino County safety net system. While bed availability changes daily, these are your best starting points for Medi-Cal detox in San Bernardino.
1. San Bernardino Behavioral Information
Address: 1136 N Mt Vernon Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92411
Phone Number: (909) 563-8816
How to Get Admitted: A Step-by-Step Guide
Unlike private insurance where you might call a rehabilitation center directly, accessing IEHP behavioral health services often requires a specific process to ensure your “medical necessity” is documented. This documentation is what guarantees your stay is free of charge.
Step 1: Call the County Access Line
This is the “front door” for all Medi-Cal substance use services in the county. You can call the Substance Use Disorder and Recovery Services (SUDRS) Access Line at (800) 968-2636. This line is available 24/7.
What to say: “I am an IEHP member living in San Bernardino County, and I need immediate detoxification services for alcohol, opioids, or other substances.”
Step 2: The Assessment
They will conduct a brief screening to determine your level of need. Be honest about your usage. Minimizing your symptoms might make it look like you don’t need a detox bed. If you are experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms (shaking, seizures, hallucinations), go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Step 3: Referral
Once approved, they will refer you to a contracted provider (like Cedar House or IVRS) that has an open bed. They can often arrange transportation if you have no way to get there.

Why Professional Detox is Critical
Trying to quit “cold turkey” at home is not just uncomfortable—it can be deadly, especially with alcohol and benzodiazepines. A professional detox program ensures you are safe during the most vulnerable days of your recovery.
Medical detox allows for:
- Safety: 24/7 monitoring of vital signs to prevent seizures and other complications.
- Comfort: Medications can be administered to ease nausea, anxiety, and body aches.
- Transition: Detox is only the first step. Staff will help transition you directly into a residential or outpatient program so you don’t relapse immediately after leaving.
Whether you are dealing with cocaine addiction or other substance issues, finding professional help is the safest path forward. If you aren’t sure if your drinking has reached a critical level, you might want to read our guide on signs of alcohol use disorder to understand the risks better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does IEHP cover 100% of detox costs?
For most members on the Medi-Cal plan, yes. Substance use treatment is a covered benefit with no copay or deductible when you use a county-contracted provider. Always verify with Member Services to be sure.
Do I need a referral from my primary doctor?
Generally, no. You can self-refer by calling the San Bernardino County SUDRS Access Line at (800) 968-2636. They can authorize treatment directly.
Can I go to a private rehab with IEHP?
IEHP generally only covers facilities that are in their specific network (contracted with the county). You usually cannot use IEHP benefits at a private, luxury facility that does not accept Medi-Cal.
How long does the detox program last?
A typical medical detox lasts between 5 to 7 days, depending on the substance and the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Your clinical team will determine the safest length of stay.
What if I live in Riverside County?
If you are an IEHP member in Riverside County, the process is similar but you must call the Riverside County CARES Line at (800) 499-3008 instead of the San Bernardino line.
The Path to Hope
Recovery is about more than just clearing the body of toxins; it’s about reclaiming your life. Hear from those who have walked this path before:
Need Help Now?
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, help is available 24/7.
- San Bernardino SUDRS Access Line: (800) 968-2636 (County-specific help)
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (free, confidential, 24/7)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Recovery is possible. Take the first step today.











