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Currently, there is much uncertainty, fear, and anxiety from the quarantine and shelter-in-place orders nationwide. Some states are beginning to reopen, whereas others remain closed. California is still observing shelter-in-place, quarantine, and social distancing practices. Governor Newsom identified six criteria that should be met before reopening the state and could be around the week of May 17th (Martichoux, 2020). With all the lockdowns, where does that leave persons who need residential treatment? The Ho Tai Way – Recovery for Women is open and taking new clients daily.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Treatment Centers

Walter (2020) reported that treatment facilities in Baton Rouge, LA have closed their doors, leaving some residents homeless. Abrupt residential substance abuse closures place residents at risk of relapse, contracting the coronavirus, or death from overdose. Agencies in Boston have closed, leaving potential clients roaming the streets while waiting for a detox bed (Bebinger, 2020). Other agencies are not accepting any new clients. Weber (2020) noted that the coronavirus was the reason a recovery center in Austin, closed its doors after having been open since 1967. Sganga (2020) highlighted that outpatient centers and recovery meetings have turned to telehealth and virtual modes of support for addicts. Persons who need intensive treatment might not wholly benefit from virtual services. Withdrawal is another concern for those awaiting treatment. Withdrawal symptoms can mask some of the COVID-19 indicators, thereby minimizing concern about the virus (Bebinger, 2020).

Social Distancing

Some have recently recommended using the term physical distancing rather than social distancing. Humans are hardwired for connection and belonging. Distancing ourselves socially is counterintuitive to our natural desire to connect. Anderson (2020) noted that language matters more than ever now. What experts mean by social distancing is that we stay far enough away that we do not spread the virus to each other. The description is that of physical distancing. A benefit of residential drug treatment is the community and socialization that is built among the residents. The Ho Tai Way – Recovery for Women follows the recommended guidelines set by the CDC while fostering the connections made from being vulnerable sharing like experiences, hopes, and dreams.

Shelter-In-Place Guidelines

You may be wondering how you can enter treatment during a quarantine order. The term shelter-in-place sounds extreme like you should not leave your current surroundings. However, Governor Newsom’s rules outline acceptable and necessary reasons to leave home (ABC7, 2020). Purchasing food, caring for a relative or friend, essential healthcare, and performing an essential job are all valid reasons under the stay at home ordinance.

Essential Activity, Business, and Travel

Seeking treatment for drugs and alcohol fall under the essential description. Treatment centers fall under the healthcare umbrella of vital businesses. Some of you reading this might ask, “What if I have to travel/fly to get to your treatment center?” ABC7 (2020) reported that airports are essential, and that travel related to critical activities was permitted. If you are thinking of choosing treatment, there is no better time than now. Addiction is cunning, baffling, and powerful and will not wait for the “right” time for you to choose sobriety.

When Will the Shelter-In-Place Order End for California?

A question that all eagerly await the answer? California might begin lifting restrictions during the week of May 17th (Martichoux, 2020). Governor Newsom has not definitively stated when, but he has outlined several criteria that need to be met first – listed below.

  1. Testing expansion and contact tracing for persons testing positive.
  2. The ability to protect vulnerable populations (e.g., seniors, homeless, persons with compromised immunities).
  3. Medical facilities are equipped to handle potential surges.
  4. Collaborating with research hospitals and other research partners to pursue COVID-19 therapies.
  5. Ensuring that physical distancing can still be applied.
  6. The ability to return to stricter measures, as needed.

Why Choose The Ho Tai Way – Recovery for Women?

We remain open and prepared to receive new clients. What sets us apart from other treatment centers? The Ho Tai Way – Recovery for Women is a specialized program focusing on the needs of female professionals, women over 35, and pregnant women. We believe that a co-ed treatment program can detract you from fully engaging in your healing journey. You might not feel comfortable enough to feel safe, vulnerable, and supported to focus on the issues you need to work through so that you find long-lasting recovery. Our program was carefully and thoughtfully devised to meet your needs at your stage in life.

What Can I Expect During Treatment?

With the uncertainty and disruption of regular routines, you might also wonder what to expect during treatment at The Ho Tai Way – Recovery for Women. Our friendly, knowledgeable admission staff will answer all your questions, verify your insurance or self-pay costs, set an admission date, and work on transportation to our facility. Once you arrive, you will be introduced to the staff, take a tour, and eat a snack or a meal. Dr. Gupta will sit with you to collaborate on personalized treatment goals and to identify your challenges and strengths. You will also meet with a doctor to assess any physical health needs, including detox medication if needed. The goal of the first few days in treatment is for you to be as comfortable as possible during detox. Once you are no longer experiencing withdrawal symptoms and feel better physically, you will begin your healing journey.

What Safety Measures is The Ho Tai Way Taking During COVID-19?

We began added procedures weeks before the recommendations. We also continue to refer to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the most current updates. It is essential to have a clean and sterile environment, and our facility has already increased the number of cleanings per day. These cleanings include a disinfectant checklist to be confident that no surface or corner goes ignored. The admission staff has implemented additional screening questions during the pre-assessment for risk determination of potential clients. Current clients have daily vital sign readings that are confidential to minimize rumor and fear in the community. Our team has been trained on the signs and symptoms and are aware of the protocol to keep our community safe.

We REMAIN open and committed to providing critical addiction treatment. We are an exclusive women’s only treatment center located in beautiful Costa Mesa, California. Call our qualified admissions team today at (714) 881-8931. Don’t let social distancing keep you from taking your life back.

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