Steps of admission to rehab centres outlined – Gauteng Social Development

The Gauteng Department of Social Development has outlined steps to be followed to gain admission at substance abuse rehabilitation centres.

The process applies to those who voluntarily want to deal with the addiction and those who are sent for rehabilitation by a court of law.

ALSO READ: Gauteng Social Development embarks on crusade for drug rehabilitation

Voluntary admission:
• Walk-in service: Individuals may arrive at a Department of Social Development (DSD) or a DSD-accredited NPO office without prior appointments. They will then be assisted, and the admission process explained to them.

Many individuals seeking help are walk-ins who are motivated to start treatment. It is important to act on this motivation as it can fluctuate over time, so it is better not to waste time and get help.

• Initial screening: Upon arrival, a screening will be conducted to assess whether the individual is experiencing a substance use disorder (SUD).

• Comprehensive assessment: A social worker will perform a thorough psychosocial evaluation to determine the appropriate intervention. This may include, brief intervention, inpatient treatment, outpatient care and community-based services.

• Medical screening: A medical officer at a primary health care facility will complete a medical screening report.

• Placement: Placement will be arranged at a state-owned or funded inpatient treatment facility. If deemed suitable, individuals may also be referred to outpatient services, community-based programmes, or day clinics located in the area.

ALSO READ: Gauteng Social Development embarks on crusade for drug rehabilitation

• Inpatient admission: Admission to inpatient treatment facilities must be facilitated by a social worker. Walk-ins are not allowed directly at these centres. While awaiting admission, individuals may participate in preparatory group sessions.

Involuntary admission:

“For involuntary admissions, the process must be initiated by the substance user’s significant others.

“Admission to an inpatient treatment facility will be processed through a court-ordered committal,” said the Spokesperson for the MEC of Gauteng Department of Social Development, Teddy Gomba.

“The same steps outlined above will be followed, starting with the screening and assessment procedures.

Members of the community are urged to check the compliance and authenticity of service providers with their local Social Development offices.

During anti-substance abuse awareness campaigns, affected substance users can only be profiled for intervention, no one will be picked up to a rehabilitation facility before any necessary assessment is conducted,” said Gomba.

For more information on the admissions process, please contact the Gauteng Anti Substance Abuse hotline on 0800 22 88 27.