Some patients can be successfully detoxed from Alcohol on an outpatient basis. This reduces significant cost of inpatient stay while maintaining the comfort of home. These patients typically are those who have mild to moderate alcohol withdrawal symptoms as assessed by the withdrawal instruments (CIWA), and are ambulatory, have low risk of medical complications, no previous history of seizure or DT's and have good support system. Dr Jaffery will determine if the patient is suitable for outpatient alcohol detox or not in the visit or thereafter. If the patient does not meet the criteria for outpatient detox, they will be referred to an Inpatient Detox or ER.

Patients suitable for outpatient detox will be seen daily for 3-7 days depending on the need. The patients will have to be accompanied by family/friends for these visits. Dr Jaffery will be available over the phone in between visits for any questions or concerns. After successful detox, the patient will have options to be enrolled in individual and/or intensive outpatient group therapy and are strongly encouraged to attend AA meetings in their community. Dr Jaffery will also co-ordinate with patients'
primary care doctors for patients medical status.

Successful Detox is only the first step towards sobriety and healthy living. After initial stabilization Dr Jaffery will utilize all latest and approved medical interventions including anti-craving and relapse prevention medications as well as injections to maintain sobriety, increase functioning and prevent relapse. During each visit behavioral and psychosocial aspects of addiction will be fully addressed. Patients will also be provided with references for home reading materials regarding addiction, alcoholism and relapse prevention strategies.

The following website is very resourceful for finding out more about alcohol and drug
related problems.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Provides searchable databases and substance-abuse-prevention materials pertaining to alcohol, tobacco, and drugs.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

Links to National Advisory Council on Drug-Abuse Recommended Guidelines for the Administration of Drugs to Human Subjects.

Rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov

Vivitrol.com

Click on the following links for some self assessment tools that can help determine if you have alcohol related problems or not.

CAGE

MAST

AUDIT

Whats a Standard Drink?

Drinking Patterns

Strategies for Cutting down

Symptoms of Alcohol Use disorder

How much is too much?