Definition
Alcohol abuse is a pattern of drinking that results in harm to one's health, interpersonal relationships, or ability to work. In the diagnosis manual DSM-5 alcohol abuse is combined with alcohol dependence to create one unified disorder, alcohol use disorder (AUD) that includes a graded clinical severity from moderate to severe with at least 2 criteria to make diagnoses.
Manifestations of alcohol or substance use disorder include failure to fulfill responsibilities at work, school, or home; drinking/using drugs in dangerous situations, including the operation of a motor vehicle; legal concerns associated with alcohol and substance use; and continued use despite problems that are caused or worsened by alcohol or drugs. Abuse can lead to dependence.
Authorization for treatment of alcohol and substance use disorders
Members/participants/beneficiaries must meet InterQual® Behavioral Health medical necessity criteria for admission to a substance use disorder facility.
We also require ongoing clinical reviews to ensure that the member continues to meet medical necessity criteria for treatment.
In network providers
Submit authorizations through GuidingCare.
Out of network providers
If you're a provider located within the state of Michigan and would like to join our provider network, visit our credentialing application page.
Out of network providers request mental health and substance use disorder services using our authorization request form.
Information needed
- Legal involvement related to substance use
- Age of first use
- Age that substance use became problematic
- Type of substances used
- Frequency and amount
- Current vital signs
- Risk factors
- Recommendation