Every cost comparison on this site — including our own — centers on the monthly program price, because it's the biggest line item and the one people search for. But it's not the only cost. Families who plan only around the program fee are more likely to feel a financial squeeze partway through treatment. Here's the fuller picture.
Before treatment starts
- Flights. Prices spike closer to departure — if admission timing allows any flexibility, booking even a week or two ahead can meaningfully lower this cost.
- Travel documents. Passport renewal fees and processing time if a passport is expired or close to it — some countries require 6 months of remaining validity to enter.
- Pre-travel medical documentation. Copies of medical records, prescription documentation, or a doctor's letter, which may involve a records-request fee from a current provider.
During treatment
- International phone or data plan. A short-term international plan or local SIM for family communication, if not already covered by an existing carrier plan.
- Family visit travel. If the program includes an in-person family week, that's a second set of flights and lodging to budget for — ask early whether it's built into the program price or separate.
- Add-ons not itemized upfront. Confirm in writing whether therapy sessions, activities, or private-room upgrades are included or billed separately — see our facility verification guide for how to get this in writing before you commit.
After treatment
- Medication continuation. Any prescriptions started during treatment will need a plan for refills back home — confirm the program provides documentation your home doctor can act on.
- Continuing care and telehealth. Some programs include a period of post-discharge telehealth check-ins; others charge separately or expect you to arrange local aftercare independently.
- Travel insurance or medical evacuation coverage. Optional, but worth pricing out, especially for a longer 60–90 day stay.
The upside: even with hidden costs added, the math usually still works
Even after budgeting for flights, a family visit, and aftercare, the total cost of a program abroad — including a longer 60–90 day stay — very often still comes in below a 28-day US program. This isn't a reason to skip the budgeting exercise; it's the reason the exercise is worth doing carefully rather than assuming the worst.
Want a full, itemized cost picture before you commit?
We'll walk you through exactly what's included at Colombian programs — no surprises after you've booked.