Alcohol and/or other drug treatment program, per diem
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Alcohol and/or Other Drug Treatment Program, Per Diem (H2036)
Common terms: Substance Abuse Treatment, Inpatient Rehab, Residential Drug Treatment Program
Technical/medical terms: Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Behavioral Health Rehabilitation
Summary
This is a structured treatment program designed to help patients with alcohol or drug addiction. The program provides comprehensive care on a daily basis, including medical, psychological, and social interventions to support recovery from substance abuse.
Purpose
Medical Conditions:
- Alcohol Use Disorder
- Substance Use Disorder
- Dual Diagnosis (substance abuse co-occurring with another mental health disorder)
Goals:
- Achieve and maintain abstinence from alcohol and/or drugs
- Improve psychological and emotional health
- Equip patients with coping mechanisms to prevent relapse
- Enhance social functioning and quality of life
Indications
Symptoms/Conditions:
- Chronic or severe substance abuse
- Failed outpatient treatments or frequent relapses
- Co-occurring mental health disorders
- Severe withdrawal symptoms
Patient Criteria:
- Physically and mentally stable for intensive treatment
- Willingness to participate in a structured program
- No immediate medical conditions requiring hospitalization
Preparation
Pre-Procedure Instructions:
- Undergo a thorough medical and psychological evaluation
- Detoxification if required, ensuring the patient is substance-free before starting the program
- Arrange time off work or other commitments, as the program requires full-day participation
Diagnostic Tests:
- Blood tests for liver function and other organ assessments
- Psychiatric assessments
- Substance use history evaluation
Procedure Description
- Step 1: Intake evaluation, including medical, psychological, and social history
- Step 2: Individualized treatment plan development
- Step 3: Daily therapeutic activities, which may include group therapy, individual counseling, educational sessions, and skill-building exercises
- Step 4: Medical monitoring of withdrawal symptoms and any co-occurring mental or physical health issues
- Step 5: Inclusion of family therapy sessions if relevant
- Tools/Equipment: therapeutic materials, medical monitoring devices, educational tools
- Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable, as the program is non-invasive; however, medications may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms
Duration
Programs typically run daily and can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on the patient's needs and progress.
Setting
The treatment is conducted in a specialized residential treatment facility, hospital, or dedicated inpatient rehabilitation center.
Personnel
- Addiction Specialists
- Psychiatrists
- Psychologists or Therapists
- Certified Counselors
- Nurses
- Social Workers
Risks and Complications
Common Risks:
- Emotional stress or discomfort during intensive therapy ##### Rare Risks:
- Severe withdrawal symptoms requiring medical intervention ##### Management:
- Continuous medical supervision
- Adjustments to treatment plans based on patient response
Benefits
- Reduced or eliminated substance use
- Improved mental and physical health
- Better social integration and support networks
- Long-term wellness and relapse prevention
Recovery
Post-Procedure Care:
- Attend follow-up outpatient therapy or support groups
- Possibly engage in transitional living arrangements like sober living homes
Expected Recovery Time:
- Varies; initial recovery can take weeks to months, with long-term follow-up often recommended
Restrictions:
- Avoidance of substance-use environments
- Continued participation in therapy or support groups
- Medication management if prescribed
Alternatives
- Outpatient Treatment Programs: Less intensive but allows the patient to live at home
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Combines medication with counseling
- Self-help Groups: Such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
Pros and Cons:
- Inpatient Program (H2036): Intensive and structured but requires full-time commitment
- Outpatient Programs: Flexible and less disruptive to daily life but may be less intensive
- MAT: Effective for some but requires strict adherence to medication
Patient Experience
During the program, patients may experience a range of emotions from distress to hopefulness as they engage in intensive therapy. Pain management is generally not a concern, although discomfort from withdrawal symptoms may occur initially. Comfort measures include emotional support from staff and peers, comfortable living conditions, and structured daily routines.