Program helps combat alcohol and substance abuse through medical stabilization

February 19, 2018

Jessica Embry, B.S., is the Medical Stabilization program director.
Program helps combat alcohol and substance abuse through medical stabilization
Twin Lakes Regional Medical Center is excited to offer a new Medical Stabilization program to aide those suffering from substance or alcohol withdrawals.

Medical stabilization and withdrawal management is the first phase of the recovery process. Before beginning treatment, addictive toxins must be eliminated from the body to create the emotional clarity needed for successful rehabilitation. Withdrawal can be a difficult experience, however, as the brain and other organs become dependent on these chemicals over time. When suddenly removed, the effects can be significant. Quitting without medical assistance can pose significant health risks.

The stabilization process typically lasts between 3-5 days depending on the severity of the addictions. During this time, the body rids itself of toxins while the symptoms are managed by a physician, greatly reducing the severity of symptoms and cravings. Combined with effective rehabilitation, success rates greatly increase and relapse is significantly reduced with medical substance withdrawal management.

"Our caring and professional medical staff is committed to supporting people in the recovery process with the utmost respect and dignity," said Jessica Embry, B.S., Medical Stabilization Program Director. "Patients will receive non-addictive medications to lessen withdrawal symptoms under 24-hour supervision of trained professionals." Once withdrawal symptoms become managed, Embry will aide patients in finding the follow-up services that best fit their needs.

The Medical Stabilization program at TLRMC is open to patients from anywhere, not just Grayson County. Embry notes that the program is very discreet.

Chronic pain is often an important issue associated with addiction. The TLRMC Medical Stabilization program will help people dealing with chronic pain through the use of non-narcotic medications and other proven medical options such as those offered by the Twin Lakes Pain Management Center proven to help break the cycle of pain. This, in turn, will enable patients to go through the recovery process.

The Medical Stabilization program is not the only thing TLRMC is doing to combat drug use in the community. Earlier this year TLRMC implemented an Opioid Stewardship program which will involve many strategies to reduce poor health outcomes related to opioid use.

Embry, a Grayson County native, is excited about getting this program up and running. "I truly believe this can make a positive impact on our community. If anyone has any questions regarding the service, please contact me. As our slogan says, 'the road to recovery starts here.'"

For more information, people are encouraged to call 270-200-4477 to talk to an admissions specialist with the Medical Stabilization program.