If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder or other mental health concerns, you may be wondering what type of treatment program is most helpful. The differences between an inpatient and intensive outpatient program in Nebraska can be confusing.
Both programs offer effective, compassionate treatment, but there are important distinctions. To learn whether an intensive outpatient program (IOP) vs. an inpatient program is the best treatment method for you or a loved one, call Northpoint Omaha today at 888.687.8014.
What Is an Inpatient Program?
An inpatient program is an approach to treating mental health or substance use disorders that provides comprehensive care to patients while they live in a hospital-like setting. Many inpatient programs provide medically supervised detox as well.
Programs differ from facility to facility, but most include a variety of evidence-based and holistic therapies and valuable services such as:
- Medication management
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Substance use education
- Aftercare planning or transition into sober living
The typical length of stay at an inpatient center for a substance use disorder is around 30 days. Some programs last 60, 90, and even 120 days. That does not include time spent in a sober living facility after completing treatment.
What Is an IOP?
An intensive outpatient program allows patients to receive a specified number of hours of treatment while they live at home. Generally, the same services offered at an inpatient facility are available at an IOP. However, most IOPs do not provide detox, medication management, or sober living.
Patients at an IOP can also expect a high level of care but with less supervision. Programs may last up to three months.
IOP vs. Inpatient Programs: Which One Is for You?
You can expect excellent care and evidence-based therapies in both an inpatient and an intensive outpatient program. Which option is best depends on each person’s unique needs. Some of the benefits of both programs include:
- Goal setting
- A diverse array of therapies
- Aftercare planning
- Assistance with insurance or financing
- Qualified clinic staff
- Peer support
- Education
Opportunities for family involvement are crucial in recovery. Both inpatient and intensive outpatient programs provide family therapy, host family events, and offer resources for family members who need assistance with issues such as codependency.
Who Is a Good Fit for an Inpatient Program?
Not everyone needs access to 24-hour care to be successful in recovery. However, inpatient care might be the best choice if:
- Your addiction is severe or prolonged
- You might experience dangerous withdrawal side effects
- You do not have a safe, stable home environment that supports your efforts at sobriety
- You have co-occurring mental or physical health conditions that require treatment
- You have been through treatment or relapse before
- Relapse may be life-threatening, as with opioid use disorders or severe alcohol use disorder
- You are not yet able to be self-accountable
- Addiction has caused you to consider suicide
Inpatient treatment is more costly than intensive outpatient treatment, but costs are secondary to health and recovery for those who need the comprehensive services available through inpatient programs.
Is an IOP Right for You?
Seeking treatment at an IOP requires less time commitment and allows patients to work or meet family obligations while they get help. An IOP may be your best option if the following apply to you:
- Co-occurring conditions have already been assessed
- You do not need medically-supervised detox
- You have reliable transportation
- Your home environment is stable and supportive
- Addiction issues are not severe
- You have completed inpatient treatment and need continued support
Lastly, the IOP model may be right for you if you can be self-accountable and don’t need close supervision to stay sober.
What Is an IOP? Learn More at Northpoint Omaha
The IOP at Northpoint Omaha is managed by a team of caring professionals who are excited to support your recovery success. Call us today at 888.687.8014 if you’re ready to change your life with the help of a quality intensive outpatient program.