If you have a substance use disorder or know someone battling the same and want to get better, maybe you’ve wondered if a rehabilitation center is the answer. As a quick reminder, this is a treatment facilities for those who have an addiction disorder involving alcohol or drugs. Some individuals go daily to an outpatient center for care, while others live at a center for a period of residential care.

However, there are many addiction treatment facilities to choose from, and not all of them may have your best interests in mind. No wonder you should strive to find reputable centers and avoid scams. Below is how to get started.

Know if Rehab is Right for You

There are a wide range of addiction treatments for substance use disorders. Not everyone needs to start by going away to a residential program, which is the most expensive option. Some people who don’t have urgent and severe physical or psychiatric issues are able to reach ‘remission’ through regular care from an addiction specialist like a recovery coach or a therapist.

If you feel like you want to look into addiction treatment centers right away, an addiction specialist might recommend a program matched to your needs. You could also ask for recommendations from people you know who are in recovery.

Beware of ‘Patient Brokers’

Some people are hired by rehabs simply to get patients. And they get some sort of financial compensation for each body they deliver to the rehab. This is commonly referred to as patient brokering, and it’s not an ethical business practice.

A broker brings in a patient based on the treatment provider’s promise to pay, rather than a clinical assessment of what a patient needs. It is fundamentally problematic and now allowed in any area of medicine.

It is essential that you ask the person you’re talking to who they work for. Ensure they’re employed by the treatment center that you have in mind. Be suspicious if they try to tempt you with perks like plane tickets to an out-of-state facility.