There are many addiction treatment centres advertising their services to the public and it can be difficult to sort good facilities from sub-par ones, which is why it’s important to understand what goes into running a quality rehab. When choosing a rehab, make sure to check if the facility is appropriately licenced and if it meets basic health, safety and other organisational standards.
This is the final blog in the series ‘20 things you should know about rehabilitative treatment: What works. This list was compiled by the European Association for the Treatment of Addiction, according to the latest evidence.
A Quality Rehab Will Be Licenced
Licenced rehabs are certified by government departments (Department of Health and the Department of Social Development) which means they meet the country’s minimum health and safety standards. Check if the addiction treatment centre you are investigating can supply you with a registration number confirming that it is licenced.
Is the facility registered with the Department of Health and the Department of Social Development? Are they able to provide you with proof of this (a legitimate registration number)?
I began my treatment at Changes almost 5 years ago. I was a very broken, lost soul and experienced the amazing program and support of my therapist and peers. It was a life-changing time for me.
★★★★★In the dark days leading up to finding Changes, I never knew the journey I was about to embark on. I had no idea what rehabilitation really meant and always had a stigma about addiction.
★★★★★I have the utmost respect and gratitude for Changes and the entire team, from Sheryl all the way to Howard the cook and David the guard. It works if you work it. Thank you Changes team.
★★★★★I am now 2 years, 10 months and 19 days clean and sober, thanks to Changes rehab. Some of the main points I was suggested to do were to play the movie through and live life for today.
★★★★★The day I first came to Changes, I was shown around and knew then that our daughter needed to in the best care possible. Changes team members understood her needs even before meeting her. Thank you for everything.
★★★★★I was done with life and reached out to rehab centers. Within 5 minutes, Changes called back, confirmed my medical aid authorisation, and after a week of being admitted I finally felt hope.
★★★★★A friend of mine was at his lowest point and after going through Changes, his life has turned around completely. Thank you, Changes, for all the help you provided him during his recovery.
★★★★★I was sceptical about rehab, but Changes proved me wrong. Their holistic treatment approach addressed not just my addiction, but also the underlying issues. I’m now living a healthy, fulfilling life.
★★★★★Safe, confidential and thorough treatment helped me through a very difficult period in my life. Changes provided me with tools and skills to manage my illness and introduced me to a supportive network of people.
★★★★★I'm proud of the family we are at Changes and the work we do because it comes from our heart and care. Due to that care, we change lives. Changes Treatment Centre is where we make change without fear.
★★★★★My first interaction with Changes gave me peace of mind. I knew that they would help. Thank you for looking after my son so well. You made a world of difference, not only in his life but also mine.
★★★★★On the 7th February 2007, I found a place that cared as much for me and my recovery as I possibly do today. I met with Sheryl and completely removed all the masks I had worn for years.
★★★★★Good Organisational Standards
If an addiction treatment centre is licenced with the relevant authorities i.e., the Department of Health and the Department of Social Development, it means that the facility meets a comprehensive list of health, safety and organisational standards.
The treatment centre needs to abide by good organisational standards in all respects, operating in line with national guidelines, laws and regulations, including with respect to
- Proper management practices
- Proper human resources and employee management and development
- Health and safety standards
- Observance of patient rights
- Conforming to broad ethics standards
- Sound financial practices
- Observing patient confidentiality
Additional Questions to Ask to Identify a Quality Rehab
Here are some additional questions to ask a rehab centre that can help you decide whether it qualifies as a high-quality facility.
- Does the facility offer a holistic programme with a wide variety of evidence-based therapies?Examples of these include cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy and group therapy.
- Does the facility employ registered professionals such as psychologists, occupational therapists and social workers?A wide variety of professionals will ensure that every aspect of the client’s addiction will be addressed in treatment which will improve the chances of treatment success dramatically.
- Does the centre treat dual diagnosis? This is when addiction occurs alongside another mental health problem or problems. Dual diagnosis is common in people entering rehab for substance abuse. Evidence shows that treating both issues simultaneously produces the best long-term results for patients.
- Is there 24-hour supervision of patients?Security and safety is critical for patients, especially in the South African setting.
- Are registered medical professionals, such as nurses and doctors, on the premises or on call?This is vital to ensure any medical emergencies can be swiftly attended to.
- Does the facility employ addiction experts such as certified and experienced addiction counsellors?
- Does the facility’s treatment strategy include an introduction to 12-step programmes?
- Does the facility provide an aftercare programme to support patients when they exit treatment?Aftercare has been shown to be a crucial element in people who maintain their recovery or sobriety in the long-term.
- Does the centre offer all three phases of addiction treatment? This includes a primary programme (21 to 28 days), long-term treatment and halfway house or sober living options. Research shows that treatment for 90 days or longer drastically reduces relapse rates. It is better if clients are able to experience the full continuum of care at the same institution for therapeutic continuity.
Are you looking for a licenced rehab in Johannesburg that operates with good organisational standards? Contact us today.
- Rehab Services including Assessments, Detox and Costs Of Treatment
- Private Rehab Facilities including Residential Inpatient, Long-Term Rehabs and Sober Living
- Counselling including Family Support, Outpatient and Dual Diagnoses
- Treatment Phases including Relapse Prevention, Aftercare and Stepwork