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Addictions

Denied Entrance to Rehab?

Answered by Jeannie Cameron, LMHC, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC

Question

Can a treatment facility refuse treatment to an addict due to past failed attempts at program completion?

That is a good question. Treatment facilities have the right to refuse treatment to individuals based on a number of factors. If an individual refuses to comply with program rules, leaves the program against medical advice (AMA), then re-entry could be difficult.

Not knowing the specifics I cannot speak to your particular case. However, there are other programs and if an individual continues to fail at one program it would make sense to try another one.

The reality is that sobriety is the goal, regardless of where you can find it. Also, the individual must be willing to do the work. Treatment programs are not a vacation. The schedule and routine, along with the education components and group engagement can be quite arduous. However, when one is at the brink of losing everything they have, including their life, the work is well worth it and individuals embrace it.

When an individual is not ready and resists the program, it makes it hard for the others to stay motivated. In such cases it is up to the staff to decide if the individual that is going through the motions and taking space, or creating havoc should leave the program to afford the space for another that is ready to change their life. Hope I was able to shed light on your question.

Jeannie Cameron, LMHC

Naples, FL

About the Expert

Jeannie Cameron, LMHC

LMHC, MCAP, ICADC

Bonita Springs, United States of America

Specialties

Mood Disorders, Anger Management, Personality Disorders, Spirituality, Divorce, Compulsive Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, OCD, Addiction or Substance Abuse, EMDR, Parenting, Domestic Abuse or Domestic Violence, Anxiety or Fears, ADHD, Impulse Control Disorders, Elderly Persons Disorders, Relationship Issues, Loss or Grief, Depression, Finding Your Purpose in Life

License

my_license #MH1127