Making the decision to seek treatment for addiction is a significant step toward recovery. Understanding what happens next can help ease anxiety and prepare you for the journey ahead. At Swift River, we’ve designed our admissions process to be straightforward, supportive, and focused on your individual needs.
The First Call: Beginning Your Journey
Everything starts with a phone call to our admissions team. This initial conversation serves multiple purposes and sets the foundation for your treatment experience. During this call, you’ll speak with a dedicated Admissions Coordinator who will become your primary point of contact throughout the admissions process.
Your coordinator will guide you through several important steps:
Preliminary Assessment
Your coordinator will conduct a confidential phone assessment to understand your current situation, substance use history, and treatment needs. This conversation helps us determine if Swift River is the right fit for your specific circumstances and allows us to begin developing a preliminary treatment plan.
The assessment typically covers:
- Types of substances used and duration of use
- Previous treatment experiences, if any
- Current physical and mental health status
- Support systems and living situation
- Treatment goals and preferences
This assessment is conversational rather than clinical, designed to help us understand your story and needs. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and express concerns throughout this process.
Insurance Verification
One of the most important services your Admissions Coordinator provides is insurance benefits verification. This process typically takes less than an hour and can often be completed while you’re on the phone for your assessment.
Our team works directly with your insurance provider to:
- Verify your coverage for addiction treatment
- Determine what levels of care are covered
- Calculate any out-of-pocket costs or deductibles
- Explain your benefits in clear, understandable terms
This verification is provided at no cost and comes with no obligation to enter treatment. We believe in transparent communication about financial aspects of treatment, so you’ll receive clear information about what your insurance will cover and what, if any, personal financial responsibility you might have.
For those without insurance or with limited coverage, your coordinator can also discuss alternative payment options and potential financial assistance programs.
Pre-Admission Planning
Once your insurance has been verified and you’ve decided to move forward with treatment at Swift River, your Admissions Coordinator will help you prepare for arrival.
Admission Date Selection
Your coordinator will work with you to select an admission date that accommodates your needs and ensures space availability. In many cases, we can arrange for admission within 24-48 hours if needed, particularly for those requiring urgent detoxification services.
Travel Arrangements
Swift River provides complimentary ground transportation for patients arriving at nearby airports, train stations, and bus terminals. Your coordinator will help organize these logistics, ensuring you have a smooth transition from your point of arrival to our facility.
If you’re traveling from within the region, we can provide detailed directions to our campus or arrange for pickup from a local address if needed.
Packing Guidance
Your coordinator will provide a comprehensive packing list tailored to your anticipated length of stay. This guidance ensures you bring essential items while leaving prohibited items at home. Generally, we recommend:
- Comfortable clothing appropriate for the season
- Personal hygiene items (non-alcohol based)
- Prescription medications in original bottles
- Insurance cards and identification
We’ll also explain items that should not be brought to treatment, such as alcohol-containing products, outside food or beverages, and certain electronic devices.
Arrival Day: Welcome to Swift River
When your admission day arrives, our team will be prepared to welcome you and begin the formal intake process.
Transportation and Arrival
If you’re using our transportation service, our staff will meet you at your arrival point and bring you directly to our facility. For those arriving independently, we provide clear check-in instructions and a warm greeting upon arrival.
Medical Assessment
Your first day includes a comprehensive medical assessment conducted by our healthcare team. This evaluation includes:
- Vital signs and physical examination
- Detailed medical history
- Assessment of withdrawal symptoms
- Laboratory testing as needed
- Medication review
This thorough assessment allows our medical team to develop a safe and effective detoxification plan if needed, and to address any immediate health concerns.
Clinical Intake
Following the medical assessment, you’ll meet with a member of our clinical team for a more in-depth discussion of your treatment needs and goals. This conversation builds on the preliminary assessment conducted during your initial phone call and helps refine your individualized treatment plan.
Orientation and Settling In
After completing intake procedures, you’ll receive an orientation to the facility, including a tour, introduction to staff, review of the program schedule, and explanation of community guidelines. Our team will help you settle into your living space and introduce you to peers who are already in the program.
The First Few Days: Transition and Engagement
The initial days of treatment focus on physical stabilization, adjustment to the program, and beginning the therapeutic process.
Detox (If Needed)
If you require detoxification services, our medical team will implement a personalized protocol to manage withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably. This may include medication management, nutritional support, and round-the-clock monitoring by our healthcare staff.
Treatment Planning
Within your first few days, you’ll work with your primary therapist to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. This plan serves as a roadmap for your time in treatment and evolves as you progress through the program.
Introduction to Treatment Components
You’ll gradually be introduced to the various components of your treatment program, including:
- Individual therapy sessions
- Group therapy and educational groups
- Medical appointments
- Wellness activities
- Recovery support meetings
Our team understands that the early days of treatment can feel overwhelming, and we pace your introduction to these elements accordingly.
Ongoing Support: Your Admissions Coordinator’s Role
Even after you’ve been admitted to the program, your Admissions Coordinator remains available to answer questions, address concerns, and provide support to both you and your loved ones. This continuity of contact helps ensure a seamless transition into the treatment program.
Family Involvement
With your permission, we encourage family involvement from the beginning of the admissions process. Your loved ones can participate in conversations with your Admissions Coordinator to understand the treatment process, learn how they can support your recovery, and prepare for their own participation in family programming.
Preparing for a Transformative Experience
The admissions process at Swift River is designed to be the beginning of a transformative journey. From your first phone call through your arrival and beyond, our team is committed to providing compassionate, professional support that addresses your individual needs and circumstances.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, we’re here to help. Call Swift River at 888-451-5895 to speak with an Admissions Coordinator who can guide you through the process of beginning treatment. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you start your journey to recovery.
