There are lots of barriers that keep people from seeking treatment for their addictions, and long wait times are a common complaint.
Even those who do receive treatment find the waitlists troublesome. The National Council’s 2022 report, for instance, tells us that 26% of Americans who received addiction care had to wait too long to see a provider.
But there has to be a more convenient alternative. So, is it possible for you to admit yourself to rehab today, with no prior appointments?
The short answer is yes. Same-day rehab programs exist. In fact, same-day treatment is a key principle of low-barrier care, as outlined by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
This post explores the expected timeline for same-day rehab. We’ll also take a look at involuntary vs. voluntary admission.
Same-Day Rehab Timeline
Here’s the typical timeline of same-day substance use disorders (SUD) rehab:
- Initial Contact: A call, a text, or an online message
- Transition: Varies, depending on your location and the facility’s location
- Pre-Intake: 15–30 minutes
- Medical and Psychiatric Evaluation: 60–90 minutes
- Detox: Not always needed, but can take as little as 5 days or as much as 3+ weeks
- Treatment Program: 30–90 days
Breaking Down the Same-Day Rehab Admission Process
Let’s take a close look at the admission process and the treatment that follows:
1. Initial Contact
Once you get in touch with the admissions team, they can get the process started. While the initial contact isn’t about making a diagnosis, you’re expected to provide information, like:
- Type of substances you’re using
- If you’re covered by healthcare insurance (to be used for a confidential verification)
- Existing health conditions
2. Logistics
If you’re lucky enough, you’ll find a 24-hour treatment center nearby. Otherwise, the transition will delay your intake a bit.
Many treatment facilities are more than happy to help make the commute easier for their patients, though. So, if you’ll fly in, don’t hesitate to request that a staff member pick you up from the airport.
Side Note: Recreate Behavioral Health Network (RBHN) is a multi-state network. Get in touch to see if there are openings for immediate admission at any of our facilities.
3. Arrival and Intake Assessment
Once you arrive at the rehab center, you’ll be asked to fill out some forms. Someone from admissions will check your bags to make sure you didn’t pack any prohibited items (find more info on what to bring to rehab later in the article).
Individualized care is paramount for any recovery journey. That’s why every patient needs to undergo an intake assessment.
Professionals in the addiction treatment field evaluate you as a whole person — mental health, physical conditions, substance abuse history, and social needs. At the very least, you should expect a screening for drugs, alcohol, and co-occurring mental illnesses.
By the end of this stage, the team will have formed a clearer picture of the substance abuse treatment plan that best suits you.
4. Detox
Some patients won’t be able to start their treatment plan without a detox first.
We understand that detoxing seems dreadful. People fear the headaches, chills, and cravings. Plus, quitting certain drugs cold turkey can be extremely dangerous. But supervised detox can help make this process a bit more comfortable.
Medical professionals can taper the drug rather than cutting it off completely. They can also use medications to manage the withdrawal symptoms.
5. Treatment Initiation
During the intake assessment, the healthcare professionals handling your case will have decided on the best addiction treatment program for you.
Here’s a quick insight into the common types and the corresponding levels of care:
| Program | Level of Care | Typical Time Commitment |
| High-intensity, inpatient | Level 3.3 | 24-hour oversight |
| Partial hospitalization | Level 2.5 | 20+ hours per week |
| Intensive outpatient | Level 2.1 | 9–20 hours per week |
| Outpatient | Level 1 | Under 9 hours per week |
Just note that recovery doesn’t end with the rehab program, though. You’ll need ongoing support, which is why your treating team will recommend an aftercare plan.
3 Things to Get in Order Before Leaving for Rehab
Don’t forget to do the following before setting off on the road to recovery.
1. Verify Your Healthcare Insurance
At RBHN, our programs are covered by most major insurance providers. We also do free, quick, and confidential insurance coverage verifications. Get in touch with our admissions team for an insurance benefits check.
2. Pack the Essentials Only
Because rehab needs to remain a safe, substance-free environment, the staff can’t let people bring just anything into the facility.
You can always ask the admissions team for a list of prohibited items. They might also be able to offer tips on what to pack. For the most part, the essentials are:
- Comfortable clothing (check local weather)
- Personal hygiene items
- Current prescription medications
- Valid identification
- Insurance card
- Petty cash (for vending machines), checkbook, or credit card.
- Contact information of all the people you wish to have involved in your treatment (think family members, friends, and physicians)
- Pictures of loved ones
3. Manage Your Personal Affairs
Before admitting yourself to rehab, you might want to call loved ones to let them know where you’ll be and how they can reach you. This is also a chance to make arrangements so that someone you trust can handle any responsibilities you may have at home, like pets.
If possible, ask someone to inform your employer, too.
Voluntary vs. Involuntary Rehab Admission
While some people realize that they need help and decide to walk into a rehab, that’s not always the case. There are also referrals and involuntary admissions.
Referrals are pretty self-explanatory. That’s when other healthcare professionals (clinicians, social workers, counselors, etc.) refer someone to the rehab program.
As for involuntary commitment, regulations and guidelines vary from one state to another.
It can be court-ordered for people deemed a danger to themselves or others. Relatives and mental healthcare professionals might be able to file petitions to have someone assessed for alcohol/drug abuse treatment, too.
[1] https://pdaps.org/datasets/civil-commitment-for-substance-users-1562936854
The duration of the involuntary treatment may also be defined by state laws. In Florida, for instance, the maximum duration for the initial commitment is 90 days.
Help Is Available Whenever You’re Ready
A quick admission can be the life-saving intervention you need right now. Don’t hesitate to call our 24/7 confidential helpline for immediate, low-barrier treatment options.
[1]screenshot from: https://pdaps.org/datasets/civil-commitment-for-substance-users-1562936854
