Both a partial hospitalization program (PHP) and an intensive outpatient (IOP) program are within the continuum of addiction treatment options for individuals overcoming addiction, and both enable participants to live at home. PHP and IOP both enable access to physicians, therapists, and necessary medication, and both are supportive and effective in helping individuals to manage substance use disorders.
The main differences between the two are the intensity of treatment and the time that participants must dedicate to their treatment.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Intensive Outpatient (IOP) Program
Intensity of Treatment
Requires full-time involvement 5 days a week for several hours per day
Part-time attendance during about 3 days per week for only 9-15 hours per week
Best Suited For
Individuals who are overcoming more severe addiction symptoms and only recently left rehab, or may require more assistance to return to everyday life and sustain recovery
Individuals with mild to moderate addiction symptoms who are stepping down from more intensive forms of outpatient care (such as a PHP)