Choosing a Rehab: 6 Questions to Ask

3 minute read

When it comes to choosing the right addiction rehab, there are many factors to be considered. Most importantly, an alcohol and drug addiction treatment program must address each patient’s needs on an individual basis. In order to identify the best facility for you, you should narrow down what exactly you are looking for and find a facility that tailors to your needs.

Some key factors to consider when choosing an alcohol and drug treatment center are:

Is the facility licensed and accredited?

When looking for a treatment facility for addiction, it’s important to find one that carries the appropriate license and accreditation. A licensed facility has met the established guidelines for the treatment of alcohol and drug addiction by the state they operate in. In order to receive accreditation an alcohol and drug treatment facility must receive approval from an outside accreditation body. This process involves a thorough process of confirmation that the facility meets the high standards of care established for the addiction treatment industry. When looking for if the facility is accredited there’s two accreditation’s that stand out in the addiction treatment industry: CARF and JCAHO.

What is the typical length of stay?

Alcohol and drug addiction treatment duration varies from patient to patient. While some may prefer a shorter length of stay, a longer length of stay has been shown to improve an individual’s overall well-being. Alcohol and drug abuse is more than a physiological dependence; it affects all aspects of an individual including their psychological well-being. Longer rehabilitation programs allow a person to take the time they need to properly stop abusing a substance while working on their mental health, recovery and interpersonal relationships. However, that is not to say some may not benefit from shorter-term addiction treatment. Those with some sobriety time, or work or childcare obligations should consider an alcohol and drug treatment center that’s going to work for them.

More Information to Help You Decide

Does location matter?

Location plays a vital part in a person’s recovery. It is often encouraged that the person seeking treatment gets out of their familiar environment. Sometimes, these environments have become toxic for those suffering from addiction. Individuals need to be in a place where they feel comfortable and safe. Removing yourself from familiar people and situations may help to prevent a relapse or certain triggers. It’s for these factors that individuals can benefit from traveling for addiction treatment. Although local treatment can be convenient, if you’ve gone through treatment a couple of times locally perhaps it’s time to seek alcohol and drug treatment in another city or state.

Does the facility accept my insurance?

This is one of the biggest factors for people that are seeking treatment. Under the Affordable Care Act, all health insurance marketplace plans must cover substance abuse and mental health treatment. However, some insurance companies may work with certain facilities only. In order to find out if the facility accepts your insurance, you can contact the facility’s Admissions Department, where they are then able to check your policy. For individuals that do not have insurance coverage, most rehabilitation facilities also offer private pay rates with a payment plan, loan financing options or scholarships.

Are admissions available 24/7?

Availability is very important when choosing a facility. You or a loved one may need immediate care so finding a treatment center that is open any time, day or night, is critical. Admissions Departments that are run 24/7 are also a good resource for individuals that have questions or need general information. Seeking treatment can be very challenging, but knowing that you have a dedicated team that is there whenever you need them, can ease your mind and make the process more seamless.

Are there different types of treatment offered?

Having different options means a more personalized treatment plan that can align with your needs. You should look into what types of techniques are offered such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Individual and Group sessions, Family Therapy, Expressive Therapy, Nutritional Counseling, Gender-Specific Processing Groups, Trauma Therapy, etc. You want to choose a facility that provides a wide range of effective and evidence-based alcohol and drug treatment methods that cater to your specific needs.

If you or a loved one are seeking treatment, Footprints to Recovery’s Admissions Department operates on a 24/7 basis. We are available to answer phone calls, emails, and live chats on a round-the-clock basis.

Author: Lindsey Bozzi – Footprints to Recovery – Admissions Coordinator

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