What Is the Difference between Public and Private Rehab?

If you are familiar with the idea of alcohol and drug rehab, you are probably also aware that there are both public and private treatment options available. However, do you know the core differences? Do you know what each one has to offer and why one might be more advantageous then the other? In this article, we will endeavour to explain the differences between public and private rehab, in the hope that you will come away with a better understanding.

For starters, we must establish that the two types of rehab we are talking about involve the NHS and private rehab clinics. We are not specifically referencing professional counsellors, support groups, or charitable organisations, even though the NHS makes use of them.

Public Rehab

The public rehab arena is the domain of the NHS. As such, any UK resident can freely access it in the same way other healthcare services are accessed. An individual suffering from an alcohol or drug problem would begin the recovery process by making an appointment with a GP. That doctor would examine the patient, offer a diagnosis, and develop a recovery plan accordingly.

When detox is necessary, it can be offered on an outpatient, inpatient, or home basis. If the GP believes detox is not necessary, the individual will immediately be referred to third-party organisations that can offer counselling. The doctor may prescribe medication to help control cravings.

The primary benefit of public rehab is the fact that it can be accessed free of charge. It is the first line of treatment most substance abusers in this country follow. Some succeed; others do not. Unfortunately, the free services offered by the NHS have some inherent weaknesses that sometimes lead to failure:

- they are oversubscribed most of the time

- long waits are not uncommon

- follow-up is virtually non-existent

- prescription medications are overused.

We should mention that the NHS no longer offers residential rehab except in extreme cases. The money is just not there to provide that sort of care anymore. When extenuating circumstances do dictate residential care, that care is still provided by a private clinic and billed to the NHS.

Private Rehab

Private rehab comes by way of independently owned drug and alcohol rehab clinics operating as businesses. These organisations have set up residential houses were recovering addicts can stay during the course of their treatments. Everything residents need is provided for them including food, accommodations, medical treatment, and rehab therapies.

A typical private rehab programme lasts between 4 and 12 weeks and involves bespoke treatment plans developed by clinic therapists. After release from the clinic, the individual takes advantage of several months of aftercare services.

The primary disadvantage of private rehab is that it is not free. However, it is more affordable than may think. Having said that, the main advantage of private care is that it generally produces better results than public treatment does. For those who can afford it, residential treatment at a private clinic is a much better option that increases the chances of permanent recovery.

For advice about which kind of rehab is more suited to your circumstances, feel free to contact one of the many referral services available online. Their experts can evaluate your situation and offer you the best recommendation possible. The important thing is that you get the help you need, regardless of where it comes from.