Inpatient Treatment Versus Outpatient Treatment at Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers

Drug and alcohol rehab centers are designed to provide a comprehensive treatment to the patient. These centers are essentially of two major categories, namely, inpatient treatment centers and outpatient treatment centers. The difference between the two rehabs rests in the location of treatment, severity of addiction and the respective strength of the treatment programs.

Inpatient treatment program, popularly known as the residential treatment, includes programs, which aim to provide 24-hour backup. In other words, the patient is under constant supervision. The treatment programs incorporate both physical and psychiatric health assistance. Usually, this treatment continues over many months. It can be derived that such programs are designed for people with severe alcohol or drug addiction. Before undergoing such an intense treatment, patients have to give an assessment test to prove they are fit for such a treatment. Often, physically weak patients cannot stand the extremity of inpatient treatment programs.

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The programs are well structured and designed into a rigid routine format. It is comparable to a strict military regime, where the individuals have to follow some set rules and instructions without any fail. Inpatient, in short implies, in-bound. The patient cannot be taken for granted even for a second, as he is susceptible to fall for a relapse. It is for this reason that the conditions are rigid and strict so that there is no way to escape.

Effective detoxification, abstinence, eating disorder treatment, pain treatment and guidance through Alcoholics Anonymous are some of the inpatient treatment methods. Once the patient is through with intensive inpatient program, he proceeds to extensive inpatient treatment program. The duration and cost of inpatient treatment varies in accordance to the duration and severity of the patient. However, usually, it is far expensive than outpatient treatment.

Outpatient treatment program, as obvious from the name, is not confined to a particular place. It is meant for less severe cases, when the patient need not remain in the center for weeks, but can pay some regular visits as and when required. Nearly 85% of the patients opt for this treatment. It is usually used for the treatment of eating disorder, pains and drug overdose. The outpatient treatment programs are most productive for those who cannot leave their wok or duty. The flexibility and freedom offered by such programs are the best features that make these a popular choice.

Unlike inpatient programs, there is limited or no focus on nutritional needs and medical condition of the patient. Instead, the outpatient treatment incorporates music therapy, individual and family programs. The best aspect of these drug and alcohol rehab programs is that the patient is within the support of his dear ones. Moreover, the cost of this treatment is very less in comparison to inpatient treatment.

Both the treatments are effective on their respective stands. The selection choice depends on the severity of the patient, affordability and medical advice. A person who is on the verge of losing his sane sense due to addiction cannot gain much out of outpatient treatment. Similarly, a mild overdose of alcohol or drug can be rectified by family therapies provided by outpatient programs. So, one should make the appropriate choice in selecting the drug and alcohol treatment center.

Inpatient Treatment Versus Outpatient Treatment at Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers