What to Ask a Treatment Centre Before Booking In

Choosing the right treatment center for addiction recovery is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success of an individual’s journey to sobriety. With numerous facilities available, it is essential to ask the right questions to ensure the chosen center meets safety, legal, and therapeutic standards. Below are key questions to ask a treatment center before booking in, along with insights into the risks associated with non-compliant facilities.

1. Is the Centre Licensed According to Act No. 70 of 2008? The Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act No. 70 of 2008 sets forth the legal framework for treatment centers in South Africa. Ensuring the center is licensed according to this act is crucial, as it confirms that the facility meets governmental standards for care, safety, and ethics.


2. Is the Facility Approved by the Department of Health (DOH) for Detox? Detoxification is a medically sensitive process that should only occur in DOH-approved facilities. Approval by the DOH ensures that the facility is equipped with the necessary medical infrastructure, protocols, and staff to manage withdrawal symptoms safely and effectively.


3. What is Your Team Concept and Team Dedication? A reputable treatment center should operate with a balanced, multidisciplinary team concept. This includes a general practitioner specializing in addiction, a psychiatrist for underlying conditions, both clinical and counseling psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists, addiction counselors, and nursing staff. It is crucial that the entire treatment team, not just specific roles, be fully dedicated to the facility rather than only available on an ad hoc or as-needed basis. This ensures consistency, stability, and a higher standard of care for clients. Such a balanced team offers both book knowledge and lived experience, ensuring comprehensive care and fostering a supportive environment conducive to recovery.


4. Does the Facility Serve Healthy Food and Maintain Cleanliness? Nutrition plays an essential role in recovery. A treatment center that prioritizes healthy, balanced meals can significantly aid physical healing and improve mental well-being, contributing to a stronger and more sustainable recovery process. Additionally, the facility should maintain high standards of cleanliness and provide a home-like environment, promoting comfort and a sense of safety for individuals during their treatment journey.


5. What Program Does the Treatment Centre Follow, and Is It Recognized? It is important to understand the treatment program offered by the facility. Ask if the program follows a recognized therapeutic model, such as the 12-step program, the Matrix model, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or evidence-based holistic approaches. Additionally, inquire about whether the program is well-established and recognized in the field of addiction treatment to ensure you or your loved one receive effective and reputable care.


6. Is There 24/7 Medical Staff and Nursing On-Site? Addiction treatment, especially during the detox phase, can present unpredictable medical challenges. Having medical staff available 24/7 ensures immediate response to emergencies and provides continuous monitoring, enhancing safety and comfort for clients.

The Dangers of Choosing a Non-Compliant Treatment Centre
Research highlights the dangers of seeking help from unlicensed or non-compliant treatment centers. These facilities often lack the necessary medical oversight, leading to unsafe detox processes and inadequate treatment protocols. Poor nutrition, limited access to professional staff, and the absence of emergency care can not only hinder recovery but also pose serious health risks. The lack of regulatory oversight may also result in unethical practices, including financial exploitation, substandard living conditions, and inhumane treatment methods. Some non-compliant centers may employ punitive approaches, such as forced physical labor or harsh conditions, making patients feel as though they are being punished for their mental health struggles rather than supported through a therapeutic process. Choosing a cheaper, non-compliant option may seem financially appealing but could ultimately risk the life and well-being of you or your loved one.

Before committing to a treatment program, thoroughly vet the center by asking these critical questions and by reading reviews from previous clients. Prioritizing safety, compliance, and holistic care can make a significant difference in achieving lasting sobriety and safeguarding the well-being of those on their recovery journey.