Why You Should Choose a Licensed and Accredited Addiction Treatment Program

If substance use is affecting all aspects of your life, finding the right treatment program is essential.  However, in your search for a drug rehab that meets your needs, you may find some that are not as reputable as others.  Your best option is to choose a fully licensed and accredited addiction treatment program.  

What does licensed and accredited mean and why does it matter?  Here you’ll find answers to the most commonly asked questions about accredited treatment programs.  With this information, you will be able to find a program that you can trust. 

What Is Accredited Addiction Treatment?

When a drug rehab is accredited, it means it has been through a series of evaluations by an agency that provides accreditation.  

The agency conducts a lengthy and thorough review of the facility and its programs, staff, client care, and safety standards.  The facility’s policies and operations are also scrutinized.  

Additionally, the facility must comply with HIPAA and other privacy laws to receive the seal of approval from the accrediting agency.  Accredited programs must also ensure that their staff is continuously trained to remain compliant with the agency’s standards.  

Accreditation will be conducted through paper audits and on-site visits to ensure that the program meets stringent standards for excellence in addiction treatment.  

Basically, accreditation is an indication that the facility will do its utmost to provide quality services to help you achieve your recovery goals.

What Organizations Provide Accreditation for Rehab Facilities?

The two primary organizations that provide accreditation for treatment facilities are:

CARF Accreditation

CARF is an independent nonprofit organization that monitors the quality of services provided by treatment facilities.  They evaluate addiction treatment programs in the U.S., Canada, and Europe.  

A CARF certification in addiction treatment programs means more than just a trophy to display.  It is evidence that the program is dedicated to client care and complies with the highest standards of excellence.

The Joint Commission

The Joint Commission is the second-largest accrediting body for drug rehabilitation programs.  They monitor quality and safety in hospitals and clinics as well.   The goal of the Joint Commission is to ensure high quality of care.  Only the best addiction treatment programs receive the JCAHO accreditation due to their high standards.

Accreditation by CARF or JCAHO is not required by law.  However, many health care organizations and addiction treatment programs pursue the certifications because they have a commitment to providing excellent services for their clients and patients.  

Why You Should Look for Accredited Addiction Treatment

Choosing an accredited treatment program means that you will get high-quality care for your substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.  The accrediting agencies provide ongoing oversight of the programs to ensure that the facility is up-to-date with the latest treatment methods and maintains a therapeutic and safe environment.

Not all treatment facilities are accredited.  In fact, a national survey shows that 56.9% are not accredited facilities.  Of the ones that are accredited, 21.8% received the CARF Seal of Excellence, and 19.2% received the Joint Commission Gold Seal of Approval.

Are Accredited Addiction Treatment Programs More Successful?

Many factors outside of the program play a role in determining whether or not someone can recover from addiction.  While an accredited addiction treatment program is recommended, it is difficult to promise guaranteed success.  

However, in an accredited program, the therapies are current, evidence-based methodologies that can be customized to suit each client’s unique needs.  These factors contribute to a higher quality of care, leading to better outcomes.

If you are looking for the best addiction treatment program, keep in mind that accreditation means the facility demonstrates their commitment to providing quality care and safety.

Our JCAHO Accredited Program at Design for Change Recovery

At Design for Change Recovery, our standards align with those of the Joint Commission.  We are dedicated to providing the highest level of addiction treatment available today.  We are proud to have been awarded the JCAHO Gold Seal of Approval.  Our entire team strives to uphold the standards that made this accreditation possible.  

Our program is also licensed and certified by the State of California which means our program exceeds the minimum levels of quality care mandated by state standards.  

Some of the evidence-based therapies we offer at Design for Change include:

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
  • Medication-Assisted Programs
  • 12-Step Programs
  • Biosound Therapy
  • Psychodrama Therapy
  • Family Therapy
  • Holistic Therapies
  • Aftercare Programs

Are you are looking for a trusted, effective addiction treatment facility for yourself or a loved one?  If so, contact our Lancaster, CA facility to learn more about our extensive program.  No two accredited rehabs are alike. So, we’d like to tell you how our program is the right one for your needs.  

Sources:  

Design for Change Recovery