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Conventional therapy is not enough to treat dual-diagnosis of addiction and mental health disorders. Often one issue is treated while the other becomes worse, causing relapse in the first disorder. The County of San Diego has recognized a need for better services in this area. In March 2005, they began an integrated services model for dual diagnosis treatment centers, San Diego.

What is An Integrated Services Model?

An integrated services model focuses on improving service coordination between all health care providers in dual diagnosis treatment centers, San Diego. The Behavioral Health Services (BHS) implemented a three-year strategic plan to offer accessible, holistic treatment to the residents of San Diego.

The strategic plan includes comprehensive care for clients and their family.

  • Assessment
  • Early Intervention
  • Outreach
  • Prevention
  • Education
  • Screening
  • Treatment
  • Case Management
  • After Care
  • Peer Services

The strategic plan streamlines how clients access service with one central phone line for all services. A standard screening form will be used with all clients. And all service providers will offer coordinated treatment.

Clients will be surveyed to check how the system is working and if improvements are needed.

Outcome Monitoring in Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers, San Diego

Beyond surveying clients for their satisfaction levels, BHS developed Co-Occurring Disorders (COD) Client Outcomes, a measurement system to ensure quality care and meaningful results. Some of the outcome measurements include criminal justice involvement in the case, level of functioning in the client, improved success in education or employment, improved housing, and avoidance of hospitalization.

Outcome Monitoring for Substance Abuse in Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers, San Diego

More outcomes must be monitored for substance abuse disorders. After treatment, clients should show improvement in frequency and severity of substance abuse, frequency of emergency services needed, involvement in the justice system, and improvement in employment.

Outcome Monitoring for Mental Health Services in Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers, San Diego

Additional outcomes are also monitored for those receiving mental health services. Clients are assessed for changes in socio-emotional state, recovery progress, substance abuse, and overall functioning.

Why is An Integrated Service Model Needed?

Treatment costs for those with dual diagnosis is significantly higher than treatment for a single disorder. Without open lines of communication between service providers, clients do not receive complete treatment. Often, clients are required to relay information between providers. As many of these clients are struggling with basic life-skills, it is unfair to require such responsibility in a population with poor outcomes.

BHS recognizes that dual diagnosis has become the expectation, not the exception in recent years. As an expectation, treatment must be provided on a holistic level with compassion. Collaboration is critical between treatment agencies to treat both disorders at the same time.

Are You Looking for Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers, San Diego?

San Diego is working hard to offer integrated services to those suffering with a dual diagnosis of substance abuse and mental health disorders. While changes are being made, many people are still slipping through the cracks. If you are seeking services for dual diagnosis, call Northlake Recovery at (561)-770-6616. Addiction specialists in Southern Florida will offer pre-assessment over the phone to determine the best treatment solutions for you.

 

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