Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) versus Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

PHP and IOP programs provide services to care for mental health conditions (including substance-use disorders), covered under Medicare. There are key differences between the two programs, which include:

  • Intensity and Duration: PHP requires more hours of therapeutic services per week (at least 20 hours) compared to IOP (at least 9 hours).
  • Certification: PHP requires certification from a doctor or qualified mental health professional that the patient would otherwise need inpatient treatment, whereas IOP does not.
  • Settings: Both programs are offered in similar settings, but PHP is specifically structured as an alternative to inpatient care.
    • If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
    • Call 911 if in an immediate medical crisis.

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Last Updated May 08 , 2025