Partial Hospitalization Programs

What Is A Partial Hospitalization Program?

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a structured form of substance abuse treatment where individuals receive treatment for several hours per day, multiple days per week, on an outpatient basis.

PHPs are an excellent alternative to a residential level of care. This program may be a good option for individuals who still require comprehensive care but also require some flexibility to their treatment.

A partial hospitalization program provides most of what one would expect to get out of an inpatient rehab facility; however, PHPs allow individuals to return home after they finish their program for the day. PHPs provide a structured program schedule, intensive therapy options, a multidisciplinary approach, and transitional planning.

How To Tell If You Need Partial Hospitalization

Determining one’s need for a partial hospitalization program is an intricate process that involves assessing the severity of an individual’s addiction, mental health symptoms, their ability to function in daily life, and the level of support required. It is essential to involve a licensed treatment professional in this decision-making process since they are qualified to make proper recommendations for the appropriate level of care.

Individuals may benefit from a PHP if they display moderate to severe symptoms, including inability to function in daily life, trouble maintaining relationships, issues with attending work or school, or neglecting to take care of themselves. Severe to moderate symptoms of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other mental health conditions could also warrant treatment at the PHP level of care.

PHPs may also be appropriate for people who have struggled to progress in other lower-level outpatient programs, such as intensive outpatient programs (IOP). When an individual has been attending outpatient therapy and has not experienced significant improvement or their symptoms worsen, a PHP can provide a more intensive approach to address their needs.

What to Expect From A Partial Hospitalization Program

Core, defining elements of a partial hospitalization program include the structure, therapies, and overall experience. While programs can vary depending on the facility and individual needs, below is a general overview of what you can usually expect from a PHP:

• A structured schedule
• Group and individual counseling
• Family or couples counseling
• Psychoeducation
• Development of coping skills
• Education on relapse prevention
• Medication management
• Peer support
• Transitional or discharge planning

How Long Are Partial Hospitalization Programs?

The length of a PHP can vary depending on the individual’s needs, progress, the specific program’s structure, and the recommendations of the multidisciplinary treatment team. While a PHP has no exact duration, it typically lasts anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Some factors determining how long someone will stay in a PHP may include the severity of their symptoms, treatment plan goals, individual progress, insurance coverage, and transitional plans.

Advantages Of Partial Hospitalization Programs

PHPs offer several advantages for people who require intensive mental health treatment but do not require or cannot attend full-time inpatient care.

These programs provide individuals with flexibility and a balance between intensive, structured therapy during the day and their independence with returning to their home in the evenings. This structure allows people to maintain a sense of normalcy while attending treatment.

Other significant advantages of attending PHPs are as follows:

Structured Schedules

Partial hospitalization programs are structured and provide individuals with different therapeutic activities throughout the day, such as group and individual therapy, psychoeducation, art therapy, recreational therapy, medication management, and more, depending on the specific program. These options may vary depending on the facility. This structure can help individuals establish routines and learn essential coping skills.

Peer Support

Peer support provides people with a sense of community, validation, and shared understanding. Being around others struggling with some of the same things can be empowering because it helps people feel less alone and more confident in coping with their challenges.

Family Involvement

Family involvement can be an important aspect of PHP. When families are involved, there is an opportunity to learn better communication techniques, educate on mental health conditions, and create an enhanced support system.

Customized Care

In PHPs, care is personalized by creating an individualized treatment plan where the person’s specific needs and goals are documented. This individualized approach ensures that the person receiving care is provided the most appropriate interventions for their situation.

Transitional Care And Planning

PHPs often serve as a transitional step for individuals recently discharged from inpatient hospitalization or those who are preparing to step down from more intensive levels of care, such as residential treatment. This transition to a lower level of care helps people gradually transition back to their regular routines. After attending a partial hospitalization program, an individual may transition to a lower level of care, such as an intensive outpatient program (IOP). This step-down in level of care ensures that patients have a comprehensive transition plan.

Medication Management

PHPs often have healthcare professionals on staff, including psychiatrists, medical doctors, and nurses, who can monitor medication regimens, adjust dosages, and address medical issues that might impact a patient’s health.

Paying For A Partial Hospitalization Program

PHPs can be more cost-effective than residential treatment since individuals return home for the day after attending. However, the cost of partial hospitalization programs differ based on factors such as location, specific program, services offered, and duration.

Though costs vary, payment options, like insurance coverage and grant programs, can help make treatment affordable. Insurance companies may cover treatment at this level of care based on a patient’s medical necessity. Scholarships and grants may also be available for those facing financial barriers and who need help affording treatment.

Find A Partial Hospitalization Program Today

If you or a loved one are seeking help for addiction and are interested in a partial hospitalization program, help is available. Contact a treatment provider to explore your options today.