What to Expect

The average length of stay is between 30 and 45 days. Each treatment plan is individualized so length of stay varies depending on multiple factors, including treatment needs, progression through program, insurance coverage, time off and personal/family obligations.

CONTACT: A prospective client, family member, local member or department member can reach out to the Center of Excellence admissions department, which operates 24/7 with dedicated intake coordinators trained specifically to address IAFF members’ needs and guide them through the admissions process.

INSURANCE VERIFICATION: The intake team obtains a prospective client’s insurance information to verify benefits and determine insurance coverage for services at the Center of Excellence. The intake team can also provide a summary of benefits for an entire department’s insurance policy, which can be useful if other members are interested in treatment at a later date. The Center of Excellence has in-network contract with most major insurers. Accredited by the Joint Commission, the Center can also accept individuals whose insurance allows them to use out-of-network benefits or those looking to pay privately for treatment.

PRE-ASSESSMENT: The admissions team conducts an individual pre-assessment by phone, which generally takes 15-20 minutes. This information is used by the clinical team to screen for existing substance abuse and mental health issues, other medical conditions and any relevant family history. While the actual diagnostic assessment cannot occur until the member arrives at the Center of Excellence and is evaluated by clinical staff, pre-assessment information is used to determine if the Center of Excellence will be an appropriate fit for treatment and to obtain initial insurance pre-authorization.

COSTS: Intake staff will review insurance coverage and projected costs of treatment with the member. While the exact cost of treatment cannot be determined prior to admission, members are informed of daily co-pays, deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums per their plan. Every member’s treatment experience is different, including the length of stay, level of care and potential additional costs, such as prescription needs. Incremental payment plans are available.

ADMISSION: The Center will work with members to determine the best method of arrival to the facility, whether by plane, train or car. A Center staff member will meet the member at the airport or train station and transport them to the Center. After arrival, clients meet with a member of the nursing team, a general physician, psychiatrist and financial counselor.

TREATMENT: Within the first few days, clients meet with their assigned primary therapist for a diagnostic assessment to evaluate their treatment needs and develop a treatment plan to support their path to recovery. After the initial assessment, the client is placed into the appropriate level of care, depending on diagnosed primary and co-occurring conditions. During their stay, clients participate in both individual therapy, group therapy and psychoeducational group sessions. Treatment levels range from acute medical detox to intensive outpatient treatment. Clients reside in one of four station houses on the Center of Excellence campus.

DISCHARGE: Discharge planning begins at the start of the treatment stay to ensure success throughout the client’s recovery journey at the Center and beyond. Upon discharge from the Center, a client will have an appointment to continue local behavioral health treatment within seven days, in addition to a follow-up appointment with a primary care doctor. The recovery process does not end upon leaving the Center of Excellence. The Center is focused on creating sustainable, long-term success.