Addiction is a chronic disease that can be treated and managed like other chronic illnesses so that your patients can live a life without the destructive effects of alcohol or drugs. When treating a patient with suspected substance use disorder (SUD), it helps to have an expert on your team. At Valley Hope, we’re always ready to assist you. No patient identifying information is required. Our medical staff is happy to help place your patient in care or make a referral. If you are a physician or nurse, we offer free doctor-to-doctor consultation.

Our multidisciplinary care team includes board-certified physicians, psychiatrists, certified addictions registered nurses, certified addictions counselors and licensed alcohol/drug counselors. All are dedicated to providing the best possible outcomes for your patients.

To ensure continuity of care, two registered nurses are on duty 24/7 at all residential facilities and doctors are on site daily. We offer a comprehensive continuum of care including detox, residential and outpatient services, plus Virtual Programs. In addition, we provide counseling and therapy for families impacted by substance abuse and addiction.

Accessing Care for Patients with Suspected Substance Use Disorder

Patients with substance abuse problems are often reluctant to ask for help. An empathetic approach can put their fears at rest and encourage them to get the treatment they need.

Raise the subject

• Explain your role; ask permission to discuss alcohol/drug use
• Listen carefully; use reflections to demonstrate understanding; avoid discord

Provide feedback

• Share AUDIT/DAST or CAGE scores; review NIAAA guidelines; ask for response
• Explore possible connection to health problems

Enhance motivation

• Summarize zone of risk and health connection
• Explore readiness/reasons for change using readiness ruler
• Ask about pros/cons of alcohol/drug use

Negotiate plan

• Summarize pros/cons of alcohol/drug use
• Ask patient what he’s ready to do or how he could cut back
• Give clear advice to cut back
• If not ready to plan, stop the intervention; thank patient; offer education materials
• Offer choices for change; provide recommendation; secure agreement
• Thank patient; negotiate follow up

For more information, visit the American Society of Addiction Medicine website.