When it comes to treating substance use disorders, each individual may require different treatments. Some people struggle with severe drug or alcohol use disorders that require advanced interventions, while others may recover with less intensive treatments. For this reason, varying levels of care in addiction treatment are available.
The Need for Different Levels of Care in Addiction Treatment
With the needs of each recovering individual in mind, the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) has created guidelines for substance abuse treatment centers to follow. Using a specific set of criteria, treatment providers can help you determine the best level of care for addiction treatment based on your unique situation.
Addiction treatment centers across the United States now use these levels of care in addiction treatment to make thorough assessments so you get the best possible care. Using ASAM criteria, an initial patient evaluation process helps determine the most effective treatment services for you.
If you’re concerned about the levels of care in addiction treatment and you’d like to speak with a supportive staff member, don’t hesitate to contact us!
ASAM Criteria Levels of Care
There are five basic levels of care within the ASAM criteria model. Within some levels, there may be subcategories to break down treatment options even further.
Level 0.5 (Early Intervention)
The Early Intervention level of care includes measures to provide education for those at-risk for substance use disorders. It may include assistive programs to intervene before a person develops an addiction. Early intervention is a critical step in helping people before their substance use worsens.
Level 1.0 (Outpatient Services)
Level 1.0 involves outpatient treatment for substance abuse disorders. Outpatient services consist of 9 or fewer hours per week of treatment services. This level of service is helpful if you suffer from a less severe substance abuse disorder or do not need intensive services.
Level 2.0 (Intensive Outpatient Services or Partial Hospitalization)
Within level 2.0, there are several subcategories. Level 2.1 involves intensive outpatient services (9 to 20 hours per week of treatment, with medical care 24/7 by phone or within 72 hours in person). Level 2.5 involves somewhat more advanced addiction treatment, with at least 20 hours per week of care. This service is less intensive than 24/7 care but provides daily monitoring and oversight for patients recovering.
Level 3.0 (Residential or Inpatient Services)
As with level 2, there are many subcategories within level 3.0. First, level 3.1 involves low-intensity residential treatment. This may be in a group home setting (at least 5 hours per 5 weeks). Level 3.1 can address the needs of people with co-current disorders. Furthermore, it provides a structured environment that can be helpful to recovering individuals.
Next, level 3.3 features one step above 3.1 with treatments targeted to specific populations (elderly, people with traumatic brain injuries, development disabilities, etc). These population-specific treatments focus on needs associated with certain groups, providing a more individualized approach to addiction service treatments.
Level 3.5 includes clinically managed residential services for people with advanced psychological or social issues. Lastly, level 3.7 is a high-intensity inpatient treatment with medical management. (24-hour setting without daily physician interaction). This level is reserved for those at risk for withdrawal symptoms who will need a higher level of support.
Level 4.0 (Medically Managed Intensive Inpatient Services)
Level 4.0 is the most advanced option among the levels of care in addiction treatment. This level includes 24/7 support with nursing care and daily doctor visits. People who need level 4.0 treatment require management by a doctor every day and around-the-clock nursing care.
If you’re not sure what type of addiction treatment is best for you, let us help. Reach out to us today at (888)-995-5265 to take the first step towards reclaiming your life. Our experienced staff will perform an individualized assessment to help you find the best treatment plan for your situation.
Understanding the Continuum of Care
Under these various levels of care in addiction treatment, patients don’t always progress in the same manner. The need for varying levels of treatment may change from the time of initial evaluation (either needing less or more extensive treatment).
It’s important to understand that these ASAM criteria are used as a guiding principle, not a method to classify or label you. ASAM criteria are helpful as you try to find the best possible care. You’ll want a supportive and understanding approach during addiction treatment to feel safe and comfortable.
ASAM Dimensions
The ASAM Dimensions include six dimensions to consider when performing a patient assessment. Staff will evaluate your need for addiction treatment by considering all six of these categories. Each of these six dimensions is important when creating an individualized treatment plan that works for you.
- Dimension 1: An exploration and assessment of your current and past use of drugs and alcohol. This dimension also takes into account your history of withdrawal as well.
- Dimension 2: The second dimension involves a biomedical perspective, where your medical needs and past health history are explored.
- Dimension 3: Evaluation of your emotional, behavioral, or cognitive conditions and associated complications, exploring individual mental health needs.
- Dimension 4: This dimension involves the assessment of your readiness to change and willingness to change your habits.
- Dimension 5: Evaluation of the potential for relapse or continued problems based on your patient history.
- Dimension 6: Lastly, this dimension assesses living conditions and daily environment to determine how this can help or hinder your recovery success.
Choosing the Best Program for Addiction Treatment Services
Given the many levels of care in addiction treatment services, finding a trusted provider is essential. Throughout the South Florida region, you’ll find many centers for addiction treatment services. To help support your best chances of recovery, choose an accredited provider.
Not only do you want to select the best detox center, but you also want to choose a provider with a comfortable and relaxing setting. Choosing a detox center with serene, calming surroundings can support your successful recovery. Our luxury detox center, located in Boynton Beach, provides you with a setting much different than traditional addiction treatment settings. Here, your overall wellness needs will be supported through a warm, home-like environment.
Summit Detox Can Help
If you or a loved one struggles with a substance use disorder, let us help! Summit Detox offers comprehensive assessments and supportive services to help you beat addiction. We offer a holistic approach to meet each patient’s unique needs and help create a sustainable recovery. For more information about Summit Detox’s addiction services, call us today at (888)-995-5265.
Worried about paying for addiction treatment services? Don’t worry! We accept many of the most common insurance plans. Reach out to us today and a member of our team will be happy to answer any of your insurance questions.
Resources:
https://www.asam.org/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK424859/
https://www.medicaid.gov/state-resource-center/innovation-accelerator-program/iap-downloads/reducing-substance-use-disorders/asam-resource-guide.pdf
https://www.asam.org/asam-criteria/about-the-asam-criteria
