When it comes to choosing an inpatient rehab facility, selecting the right recovery center is crucial to long-term success. There are many different factors, options, and variables to take into consideration. While there is an urgency to begin treatment as soon as possible, taking an appropriate amount of time to evaluate your rehab choices is very important.
We’ve put together the following checklist to help you, or your loved one, make the first step in the journey toward recovery a positive one.
#1 – Safety of Inpatient Rehab
Safety should be the number one priority in almost every endeavor. The same holds true when researching inpatient rehab centers. Be sure to evaluate the physical safety of the building and premises such as a secure entrance, visitor identification procedures, and visual safety installations such as exit signs and evacuation placards. In addition to building safety, ask the staff about their own training regimen, safety protocols, and best medical practices.
#2 – Available Treatments
Every individual’s path to recovery is different. Rehabilitation centers taking a one-size-fits-all approach limits a patient’s ability to properly address their addictions. Look for facilities providing a variety of treatment options such as 12-step programs, detoxification services, and dual-diagnosis specialties.
#3 – Distance from Triggers
It is often recommended those recovering from addiction keep a safe distance between themselves and potential triggers. While some triggers cannot be avoided such as dates, others can including specific locations, people, and even smells. Select a facility where the number of triggers is kept at a minimum. In some cases, this may mean choosing a rehab center further away than those close to your home.
#4 – Distance from Family and Friends
Combating addiction is rarely done alone. The support of friends and family can be critical to a patient’s success. Unlike triggers, where we want to create space, choosing a location close to those supporting you can increase the probability of recovery success. The closer loved ones are, the more likely they will visit and lend their support. If support from your family or friends can’t come in direct physical form, ask the rehab facility if FaceTime or phone call support can be a part of your treatment plan.
#5 – Length of Stay
Look for facilities with the ability to provide the length of stay necessary for recovery. Some programs may only offer one-week inpatient services. However, stays lasting at least one month has shown higher levels of long-term success. There is no specific number of days that works out for everyone, making the flexibility of stay length an important consideration.
#6 – Cost
Without insurance, rehabilitation services can cost thousands of dollars. Of course, health and well-being are paramount for someone suffering from addiction. Make sure you balance the cost of care with the treatments provided. Ask if there are payment plan options and if so, inquire about interest rates, penalties, and fees.
#7 – Insurance
Many inpatient rehab centers now accept insurance. It is critical to learn how your insurance will work with your chosen facility. Learn whether coverage is provided as in-network or out-of-network as your out-of-pocket expenses will be quite different. Then, find out if your insurance will pay up front or if coverage is on a reimbursement basis. Reimbursement plans require much more work by the patient and their family in ensuring treatments and medications are covered property. Ask the rehab facility to verify insurance benefits for rehab and they can help to explain coverage.
#8 – Availability
As more individuals seek addiction treatment, rehab centers are filling up faster than ever. In some instances, waiting lists are needed. If you have found the perfect rehab center for your recovery needs, sometimes waiting may be appropriate. However, make sure you discuss your situation with your physician before waiting too long.
#9 – Visitation Rules
Whether or not visitors are allowed is a personal choice. However, not only should you consider if your family and friends can visit, but consider how the visitation of other guests may affect your focus on addiction recovery.
#10 – Tailored Treatments
Finding a facility offering a variety of treatment programs is a wonderful indication the center may be a fit for your recovery needs. To go one step further, learn if their treatment programs are custom tailored for each individual. The more specific a patient’s program is, the higher the chance of success.
#11 – Post Care Services
After detoxification and inpatient rehab, does the facility you are considering offer post-care services? Services could include support groups, regular checkups, and counseling services. Walking out of a rehabilitation center’s doors doesn’t mean recovery has ended. In fact, it is often the post care services that help patients maintain sobriety for years to come.
#12 – Certifications and Accreditation
At the most basic level, check to ensure the facility you are considering is state licensed and certificated. Once confirmed, look for centers whose staff have been professionally trained and hold the proper licenses and degrees for the services they provide. Lastly, seek out inpatient rehab centers who have received national or international accreditation, such as one offered by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.
The First Step to Inpatient Rehab
Deciding to seek treatment for yourself or a loved one is an important first step. Choosing the right inpatient rehab facility is an important decision. If you need additional assistance in selecting a center that is right for you, speak with your physician or contact one of our professionals at Ocean Hills Recovery.
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