How to Choose the Right Addiction Treatment Center

Choosing an addiction treatment center can be overwhelming. Yet it is one of the most important decisions a person will ever make. There are so many different types of programs available. This can make it difficult for a person know where to go to get quality treatment for an addiction. This is why it is very important to know what to look for and what questions to ask regarding the programs, staff, cost and credentials.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for a place that offers a variety of programs. This will help ensure that the treatment center can meet the individual needs of the person seeking treatment. It should have programs such as residential, inpatient, outpatient and short-stay.

• 2

  Find out what the program costs. The price for treatment can vary depending on the type of program. Ask an intake advisor what services are included in the fee and what additional charges may be added as a fee-for-service program. Find out what services your insurance will cover.

• 3

  Find out if the program is medically based. Addiction treatment centers that offer on-site medical care will have a 24 hour staff of physicians and nurses. They will monitor the patient through the withdrawal process and they can make any necessary adjustments to the patient's treatment. It's important to choose a program that has the accreditation of the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). This accreditation offers the assurance that the program meets the national guidelines for quality medical care.

• 4

  Look for a program that includes families in the treatment process. Addiction is a problem that affects the entire family. Ask if family therapy is included in the program.

• 5

  Ask if the center offers continuing care. Recovery from addiction is a lengthy process. This is why it's important to choose an addiction treatment center that has a follow-up program to help monitor the patient's recovery.