The task of researching, assessing, and, finally, selecting an alcohol treatment center for your loved one can be daunting. However, thoughtful consideration and targeted research are key to finding the right fit.
Each patient’s needs are unique, and the ideal treatment center should mesh with both clinical and practical needs. When you’re looking for an alcohol treatment center for a loved one, here are some things you should consider.
Focus on Finding a Clinical Treatment Match
The primary focus for your search should be a match for your loved ones’ treatment needs. Familiarize yourself with their addiction history and the type of care that they have already received. Be objective and consider what level of success prior treatment has achieved.
Oftentimes, individuals considering inpatient treatment may have tried other therapies previously. Above all, a treatment match is ideal to help your loved one have the best care for their needs.
Outpatient care can offer the right blend of focused treatment and flexibility, especially when one has external demands. Inpatient care allows the individual to focus solely on treatment. Inpatient care may be needed with advanced levels of addiction or when health risks are high.
Speak with your loved one about their experiences with prior treatments and compare their feedback. Review clinical records and have discussions with their healthcare team as you consider alcohol treatment centers in Utah. This can give you a comprehensive view of their history to help guide your decision-making.
Confirm Healthcare Coverage
One of the biggest concerns when considering advanced addiction care is the expense. The cost of quality medical care is high across treatment modalities and care methods. However, standardized costs don’t negate the financial realities.
Clarify what treatment types and length, and medications your loved one is eligible to receive based on their healthcare coverage. This will help you get a baseline of what may need to be covered through either co-pay or out-of-pocket expenses.
Once you have this information, speak with the staff at the Utah alcohol rehab center admission office. Find out how these coverages are applied and if there are opportunities for scholarships or reduced rates.
Some Utah alcohol rehab programs may have additional coverage for veterans or other groups. Even if you think your loved one might not qualify, ask to ensure you’re accessing everything available to you.
Be mindful not to rule out a specific center based on pricing alone. Give their admissions team an opportunity to find a price structure that gets your loved one the care they need.
Discuss Safety and Treatment of Co-Occurring Medical Needs
Individuals living with addiction are also navigating life with co-occurring problems and mental health challenges. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder commonly pair with alcohol abuse. Find out if the treatment center you’re considering has the ability to handle all diagnoses.
Find out if they can diagnose and treat co-occurring issues and to what level of care. Do they have in-house care, or can they refer to other professionals? If you’re looking at a residential program, ask if mental health professionals will come on-site.
Many treatment plans consider utilizing medication-assisted treatment. Find out if they are able to use FDA-approved medication or if an addiction-trained prescriber supervises treatment. Ask for both their plan and track record in administering whatever type of treatment plans they are proposing.
Find out about their medical staffing levels and what their process looks like. Do they have daily check-ins and vitals checks, or do patients check in weekly? Ask about staffing levels to gauge their ability to respond to emergencies and effectively cover residents’ needs.
Medical complexities and individuals with multiple diagnoses and addiction may require more medical care than others. Ask about your loved one's specific needs and document their responses as you assess their ability to support healthy treatment.
Learn About Family Support and Post-Treatment Care
Much of recovery relies on how patients are supported and equipped for life outside of treatment. Within the bounds of a treatment center, access to temptations is limited. However, after completing treatment, individuals have fewer restrictions.
Find out what coping skills are taught to patients during treatment. Ask about discharge planning and what aftercare looks like, including sober housing, outpatient treatment, and therapy. Get this in writing so you can review it and compare.
Ask also how they equip family members with tools and resources to support their loved one. Family sessions that help repair relationships and identify warning signs for relapse can help improve success rates. A center that excludes families entirely should be a red flag, while those including family support systems can be positive.
Look also for support systems for patients to connect and support one another in recovery. Alumni groups, check-ins, and retreats months and years into recovery can help encourage long-term success and support.
Finalizing Your Choice
After assessing multiple facilities and their plans, you’re left with a mountain of data. Compare each of the categories above and get connected to former patients and families. Strive to visit facilities in person to meet staff members and assess the center objectively.
Ask questions, go on tours, and trust your gut. Narrow down your options and choose the one best suited to support your loved one through treatment. With comprehensive care, customized treatment, and professional support, your loved one will be on the path to recovery.
