Each person is unique, as is the nature and severity of their addiction. That is why there are different approaches to treatment. Inpatient programs involve a long stay in a rehab and are designed for the most difficult cases that require maximum control over the patient. Outpatient programs are gentler, allowing patients to stay at home most of the day or even a few days a week. These include partial hospitalization programs (PHP) and intensive outpatient programs (IOP). This article will explain what they are, how they differ from each other, and how to choose the most appropriate one.
At New Breath Recovery, you can find answers to all your questions regarding drug, alcohol, and prescription drug addiction treatment. Here, they will develop an individualized treatment plan for you that will help you get on the path to a sober life. All patients at our rehab are in a safe and comfortable environment under the supervision of caring medical staff. That is why treatment is not uncomfortable and is highly effective.
What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
Partial Hospitalization Program is an approach to treatment where patients with moderate addiction problems attend a rehab center where they spend most of their day. These programs are often used as a transitional step from inpatient care to create a more comfortable environment for socialization after rehab.
PHP has been shown to be an effective alternative to inpatient and regular outpatient treatment through a combination of intensive therapies and maintaining contact with people outside of the clinic.
Key features of PHP:
- frequency of clinic visits: 5-7 days per week;
- duration of sessions: 4-8 hours per day;
- treatment methods used: the full range of therapies available, including individual, group and family therapy. Medication treatment if necessary;
- meals: usually available.
PHPs are often chosen by people who have already completed inpatient rehab but have a fear of relapse. These programs provide a comfortable transition from a fully supervised environment with medical staff to independent living. If the diagnosis allows and family support is available, PHP can be utilized immediately after detoxification without institutionalization.
It is important to realize that this solution is not for everyone. Its effectiveness is determined on a case-by-case basis by the physician.
What Is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)?
IOP is an approach to treatment that is as close to outpatient care as possible. The only difference is the number of hours per week that are devoted to therapy. This is why IOP is often seen as a transitional stage from inpatient or PHP to infrequent visits to the doctor or support groups. This treatment option is appropriate for patients who have almost returned to society and are able to deal with triggers on their own, but still need additional support.
Studies have shown IOP to be highly effective in treating alcohol and drug addiction, provided that patients have relatively mild symptoms of the disease.
Key features of IOP:
- frequency of clinic visits: 3-5 days per week;
- duration of sessions: 2-4 hours per day (at least 9 hours per week);
- treatment methods used: individual psychotherapy sessions, anxiety management and support for normal social life, medication supportive treatment;
- meals: usually not available.
The main advantage of IOP is the great freedom for patients. They can continue to study, work, and take care of their families while receiving all the help they need. This approach reduces the risk of relapse, the main reason for which is the need to cope independently with psychological dependence on alcohol, drugs or prescription drugs.
Key Differences Between PHP and IOP
Both options share the treatment methods used. Depending on the nature of the disease and the patient’s problems, individual sessions with a psychotherapist, group work, family therapy, motivational interviewing, behavioral therapies and other approaches used in common practice at the rehabilitation stage may be conducted. The main goal is to help a person learn to cope with addiction on their own, to support them in their time of need, and to guide them along the right path. But PHP and IOP have their own peculiarities.
The difference between partial hospitalization programs and intensive outpatient programs:
- time. PHPs, on average, require 2-3 times more time to visit a rehab or clinic. Unlike such programs, IOP can be conducted remotely, which saves significant travel time to the treatment center;
- level of supervision. IOP is characterized by less involvement of medical staff, assumes that the patient is stable and does not require close attention, such as monitoring the timeliness of prescribed medications;
- flexibility. IOP gives patients more flexibility. They can go on with a life that is not unlike most people’s lives while receiving all the care they need;
- cost. PHP usually costs more than IOP, which can be explained by a combination of factors: the duration of treatment, the need for a large number of medical staff, the provision of food, etc.
That being said, it is impossible to say definitively which addiction treatment method is better. Each of them is effective if it is suitable for a specific case.
How to Choose Between PHP and IOP
We would like to point out that this article is not a guide to choosing between the two types of programs. Only a medical specialist can choose the best option after a comprehensive examination. But by understanding the difference between PHP and IOP, you can roughly estimate how suitable each of them is in your case.
To do this, you need to ask yourself the following questions:
- How serious is the addiction problem at the moment?
- Am I able to study or work normally at this stage?
- How much therapy time per day do I need to feel comfortable and not feel anxious?
- Is there someone close to me who can support me through the full healing stage?
The hardest part is determining the extent of the disease. Self-diagnosis is ineffective and even dangerous; you need an experienced physician’s perspective.
Why Choose New Breath Recovery for Your Journey to Recovery
Patient comfort, maximum attention from doctors and medical staff, and the use of effective addiction treatment methods are what New Breath Recovery, a rehab center located in the quiet, cozy town of Simi Valley, California, is all about. Our rehab specializes in the recovery of people who are addicted to alcohol, drugs, and prescription medications. The clinic provides a full-service environment to help patients regain a sober, conscious life.
We offer:
- a comprehensive examination to develop a detailed treatment plan that takes into account the nature of addiction, length of substance use, age and health status of the patient;
- individualized treatment programs (inpatient and Partial Hospitalization Program), which are adjusted according to the observed results of the therapies;
- experienced professionals with extensive experience in treating all forms of addiction, even dual diagnosis;
- a fully equipped rehab that is comfortable to stay in, with chef-prepared meals and cozy apartments.
Don’t be alone with your problem. Seek help from professionals – it will help you regain your sober life and restore healthy relationships with your loved ones.
FAQs
In this block, we have compiled answers to questions we are often asked about partial hospitalization programs and intensive outpatient programs.
Can I transition from PHP to IOP?
You can choose your own treatment program, the only question is the effectiveness of the chosen method. In case of positive dynamics of PHP treatment, transition to IOP is possible and even encouraged, but prior consultation with a specialist is necessary.
What happens after completing PHP or IOP?
Treatment of alcohol and drug addiction is a complex and lengthy process. After completing one of the stages of recovery, the doctor assesses the patient’s condition and gives recommendations for further treatment: after PHP, IOP or outpatient treatment may be recommended; after IOP, outpatient treatment or attending Narcotics Anonymous groups may be recommended.
Is one program more effective than the other?
No. The programs are each effective in their own way. You cannot say that one is better or worse than the other.