Recovery Journeys with Detox and Primary Care
By Marketing Specialist Levi Oyster
If you are ready to start your recovery journey, SCF Detox can support you on the path that works best for you.
Southcentral Foundation offers a compassionate, integrated approach to supporting individuals on their recovery journeys. Whether someone is seeking withdrawal management through SCF Detox or access to medications for addiction treatment through primary care in Anchorage and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, SCF provides multiple pathways to care. Recognizing that reaching out for help can be challenging, SCF is committed to making services accessible and welcoming.
The SCF Detox program supports all Alaska residents ages 18 and older, who are ready to take the first step toward recovery. In a safe and comfortable shared space, participants receive 24-hour medical care, connect with caring employees to plan their next steps, and have access to behavioral health counselors. Educational sessions are also available for individuals who want to learn more about recovery and wellness.
“SCF Detox assists with managed withdrawal, or detox, from alcohol and substances in a safe environment over multiple days, using oral medications to stabilize symptoms of withdrawal,” Dr. Dan Hartman, medical director of Specialty Services said.
SCF Detox supports individuals on their recovery journeys with medications for addiction treatment to make the process safer and more comfortable. For those working to overcome opioid use, administering Suboxone can ease cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms. For people with alcohol use disorder, naltrexone is available to help reduce the urge to drink by lessening the rewarding effects of alcohol or other substances. These tools can be an important part of a personalized recovery plan.
“SCF Detox meets people where they are at, and provides safe, whole-person care for people in their first step into recovery. Our hope is to alleviate the demand for emergency room services for detoxification by providing a quiet, safe, and friendly environment,” Hartman said.
Participants at SCF Detox have semi-private rooms, offering a comfortable space to relax. There is a welcoming dining area where individuals enjoy meals with others if they would like. There are also lounge spaces available for fun activities, which people can join at any time.
“My experience here has changed my mindset toward sobriety. When I first got here, I was freezing cold and had been outside in -12 degrees for hours. I finally hit rock bottom and almost gave up,” one SCF Detox participant shared. “Once my intake was completed and I spoke with the provider, I felt so relieved. All the certified medical assistants were so gentle and kind, waking me up to get my vitals. All the nurses made sure I was comfortable with the meds I was taking. At any time, I was able to ask a question with a resolution from them. I felt safe and comfortable for the first time in a long time.”
Everyone’s path to recovery is unique, sometimes it can take a few tries to find what works best. Multiple avenues are available at SCF to support a healthier community. To meet people where they are at, individuals can go to primary care in Anchorage and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough to receive Suboxone for opioid use disorder and naltrexone for alcohol just as they would to seek any other treatment for their health. These efforts treat the whole person, without stigma, and reduce the need for emergency services. Individuals can acquire medications for addiction treatment without having to go to detox, or afterward as a continuation of care. If you are ready to start your recovery journey, SCF can support you on the path that works best for you.
Southcentral Foundation Detox is a self-referral service, to inquire about admission, call 907-729-6690. For more information about the facility expansion, see Yeshjesh T’uh article in this edition of the Anchorage Native News.
