Inpatient versus Outpatient Detoxification– What’s better?

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a growing epidemic in the United States.

As many as 6.8 percent, that is, 16.3 millionadults (18 years and older) had AUD by 2014. Almost 88,000 deaths occurred annually, due to alcohol-related accidents. It is therefore important to seek treatment for alcohol addiction.

Detoxification is the first step of alcohol abuse treatment which helps a person overcome their physical and psychological dependence.

It also helps manage any withdrawal symptoms which may arise due to cutting off alcohol consumption. It also treats co-morbidities, that is, co-occurring physical or mental health issues.

Detoxification services can be offered as inpatient or outpatient treatment. Wondering what is more suitable for you or a loved one? Here are a few differences between the two to help you decide what will be a more suitable option.

Inpatient versus outpatient detoxification

Inpatient treatment requires a person to admit either in a hospital or an alcohol rehabilitation or inpatient medical center. Individuals seeking treatment have to reside in this facility until the end of their detox and often undergo a full 30 days of treatment. The length of program may range from a few days to a month.

Outpatient services expect a person to visit the facility daily or at regular intervals, depending on the design of a program. Sessions may last for varying hours depending on what is planned for the day. Timings are usually pre-decided by the center.

An average duration of detox treatment is 6.5 days for outpatient services and 9 days for inpatient programs.

Advantages of inpatient and outpatient detoxification

Inpatient treatment is more suitable for those with severe addiction and greater chances of relapse. Constant care and supervision as well as availability of instant treatment can help manage serious withdrawal symptoms. The facility also prevents exposure to alcohol, and thus, there are lesser chances of alcohol consumption.

For people with mild or moderate addiction, outpatient detoxification is just as efficient as inpatient treatment. However, these are more affordable and consume less time. These individuals have more social support from their family, friends and peers. They can also continue their jobs and other social activities.

Disadvantages of inpatient and outpatient detoxification

Inpatient treatments are offered at relatively higher costs which is the biggest disadvantage. Not many people can afford these treatments. Furthermore, a person can possibly become dependent on facility staff since this form of care release patients from their responsibilities.

On the other hand, with outpatient services, there is a greater risk of relapse for patients as they live far away from supervision. They have easy access to alcoholic drinks and beverages. They may not be regular for their appointments which can prolong the treatment.

Treatment outcomes obtained with the two methods

There is no choosing a single ‘best treatment’; rather, it varies from condition to condition.

In some cases, outpatient service is more appropriate because of more positivity attached with the program. In other extreme cases, an individual may need inpatient services for a holistic recovery.

Speak with the rehabilitation center and counselor to determine the best path to recovery.

Transition to rehabilitative treatment

Rehabilitative treatment may begin during detox sessions. One such intervention is to enable these patients to be unresponsive to alcohol exposure. This is easier for those availing outpatient services as they are still a part of their social circle.

Fusion Recovery offers individual outpatient services with options for an intensive treatment plan. It includes detoxification sessions, counseling and mind-body practices along with other treatments, as deemed suitable. Learn more about their services offered for substance abuse treatment.