We take our clients’ well-being seriously at The Bluffs Ohio, even during the current coronavirus pandemic. To learn about our The Bluffs COVID-19 policy or to enroll in our addiction treatment program, please contact us today at 850-374-5331.
The Bluffs Ohio Is Open and Ready To Help
The first question that many people have is whether addiction treatment and rehab centers are even open. It’s true that in the early lockdown phase of the pandemic, many such facilities were closed. All The Bluffs locations have remained open, ready to serve those with alcohol or substance use disorders through a variety of programs and treatment methods. Find a The Bluffs location nearest you, and reach out to our clinically-trained, compassionate staff to begin your journey of recovery.
General Health and Safety Protocols During COVID-19
The Bluffs has committed to following the guidelines and precautionary measures both recommended and mandated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and federal and state government. All patients are screened for COVID-19 symptoms and possible exposures upon admission. Any patient who presents with symptoms of COVID-19 will be tested and quarantined pending a negative test result.
Our practical on-location measures include social distancing, daily temperature checks as patients and staff come to the facility, and recommending the use of face covers.
Additionally, we have given clear guidance to our staff on proper PPE (personal protective equipment) protocols for various scenarios.
We are following CDC and OSHA guidelines on both cleaning and disinfecting all buildings and surfaces, and we have clear procedures in place for anyone who develops symptoms.
If you have more questions, please reach out to our team members.
Protocols for Someone Symptomatic for COVID-19
The Bluffs takes the possibility of an outbreak at one of our facilities very seriously. Anyone who becomes symptomatic will be immediately quarantined and then tested for COVID-19, remaining in quarantine and awaiting their test results.
Quarantine does not, however, prevent treatment from occurring; patients still receive the appropriate level of care and are provided use of an iPad to attend their group sessions virtually.
Test results are generally available within three days. Patients who test positive for covid may be able to continue receiving care in isolation and attend programming virtually while receiving ongoing monitoring for medical stability. Patients requiring a higher level of medical care will be discharged to the appropriate level of care.
COVID-19, Addiction, and Withdrawal
Some who are facing addiction are concerned that COVID-19 might be harder to detect in those using or withdrawing from particular substances. The COVID-19 test works equally well on people in this situation as it does on the general population. There is no need to worry that the test will be inaccurate due to substance use or withdrawal symptoms.
That said, some of the symptoms of withdrawal, like fever and cold-like symptoms, overlap with symptoms of COVID-19. This overlap can lead to confusion for anyone going through withdrawal — whether under our care or on their own. That’s why we have put in place the precautions described above, and it’s why we gather information about travel and close contact with others.
Isolation and Relapse
Some former patients have struggled with the social isolation caused by COVID-19 and have relapsed. If you are experiencing a relapse, you can get help.