What Is A Medical Detox?
The definition of a "medical detox" for alcohol and drug abuse varies, and although you might expect supervision by a qualified physician throughout the detox process, that isn't always the case. You will find the following versions of "medical detox" services:
- Outpatient detox treatment with repeat visits to a physician
- Inpatient detox in a rehab facility with an initial meeting and possible follow-up meetings with an on-call doctor
- Inpatient detox in a rehab facility that provides vitamin supplements in pill form or through IVs
- Inpatient detox in a psychiatric hospital or mental health clinic
- Inpatient detox in an upscale center that includes a customized treatment plan for utmost safety and comfort, with on-staff physicians, round-the-clock ICU-level nurses, cardiac and video monitoring 24/7, and private rooms.
"In the past the detox clinics were either unbearable or they loaded me up so much that I was far more drugged up than before. The way Dr. Gallus handled my situation was perfect…" - Read more of our patients say—their own detox success stories—about how fearful they had been of detoxing and withdrawal, how safe and cared for they felt with our team, and how that experience has changed their lives.
What Is A NON-Medical Detox?
A non-medical detox does not include interaction with a physician during the detoxification phase. Rehab facilities offering non-medical detox may try to manage withdrawal symptoms with natural alternatives such as meditation, vitamins, saunas and yoga. For some people, a non-medical detox will not provide the level of comfort needed during the first days or weeks without alcohol or drugs. For them, going "cold-turkey" can be frightening, painful and even life-threatening. The success and safety of a non-medical detox hinges on the individual's health and how long they have been abusing alcohol and drugs.
What Is the Best Medical Detox Method?
The best medical detox depends on the individual's needs but for the utmost safety and comfort, it should include these vital components:
- Patient Assessments: Social, physical and psychological assessments are performed to determine the current condition of the patient.
- Personalized Plan: Based on the initial assessments, a team of Board Certified Physicians, ICU-Level Registered Nurses and an Addiction Psychologist meet with the patient to create a customized treatment plan. This treatment includes IV medication that can be adjusted moment by moment, immediately responding to the patient's withdrawal symptoms.
- Monitored Treatment 24/7: Throughout the detox process, the patient is closely monitored 24-hours a day with top-of-the-line cardiac and video monitors and personal attention from caring, non-judgmental nurses and technicians.
- Upscale Environment: For patients to succeed with an alcohol or drug addiction detox, many need the comfort and convenience of private rooms, gourmet meals, HD-TV, Wifi and massage along with the freedom to contact family and friends for emotional support. For some, private rooms are essential as being housed two or more to a room in other facilities means an additional level of discomfort.
To learn more about inpatient medical detox and how to compare detox treatment programs, see Questions to Ask When Comparing Detox Services.
If you or your loved one are suffering from alcoholism, drug addiction or other substance abuse and need help, please call us at 855-338-6929 to discuss whether our customized Detox Treatment is the best program for you. Be assured we value your privacy and all your information is kept strictly confidential. Contact Gallus Medical Detox Centers today and take the first step towards rehab and recovery.
