Local Rehab Explains Advanced Diagnostic Testing

Sausalito, CA – Alta Mira is a local rehab that recently released an article explaining the benefit of advanced diagnostic testing and assessment. Their team consists of experts in the field of addiction, with many practicing for decades.

“To accurately diagnose a client with a substance use disorder (SUD) that co-occurs with another mental health condition, comprehensive and extensive testing is essential. The demand for individualized medical treatments has increased across all healthcare sectors, including addiction medicine. This demand has driven the pursuit of effective diagnostic methods to ensure precise and reliable evaluations.

"Research shows that substance use disorder is a serious condition that incorporates genetic, and neural maturation, with cultural and societal elements. These multidimensional aspects must be thoroughly considered during treatment to deliver optimal recovery outcomes.

"One approach to achieving accurate diagnoses involves matching comprehensive need-service assessments to the client’s specific circumstances. Studies demonstrate that such tailored assessments lead to improved outcomes in primary and overall substance use over the subsequent year. Key areas of focus in these assessments include mental health, housing, medical care, family dynamics, and vocational support,” the article reads.

Physical testing begins with a comprehensive assessment of the client’s well-being. Clinicians first evaluate whether the individual is experiencing a psychotic episode or has physical deformities related to chronic substance use. These critical aspects are addressed immediately upon intake to establish a baseline understanding of the client’s condition.

The next component is a biological workup, including a complete blood panel, which rules out underlying medical conditions that may contribute to symptoms. An example is psychosis, which is not solely linked to substance use. Medical conditions including Cushing’s disease, lupus, meningitis, and dementia are also known to induce psychotic episodes. Blood tests are essential for identifying the presence of such conditions.

“Clients presenting with substance-induced psychosis, among other complications, require comprehensive psychological assessments following stabilization. One of the primary diagnostic tools employed is the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5), a series of interviews designed to assess a range of psychiatric disorders, including mood, personality, psychotic, and substance use disorders. This structured approach ensures a systematic and reliable diagnosis across multiple domains.

"In addition to the SCID-5, the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) is often utilized as a rapid screening tool. This interview is designed to be concise, typically lasting about 15 minutes, and provide an efficient way to identify key psychiatric conditions, making it a valuable complement to more extensive diagnostic evaluations,” the article continues.

Test results necessitate follow-up care as the treatment regimen begins, primarily because both physical and mental health statuses can evolve once substances are eliminated from the body. Underlying mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia may present as the detoxification process concludes. The shift in diagnosis can alter the course of treatment. Addressing co-occurring disorders is vital to the overall treatment process. Ongoing observation and reassessment are necessary to tailor the treatment plan accurately, ensuring that both the substance use disorder and any underlying psychiatric conditions are treated concurrently and effectively.

Alta Mira is a leading provider of substance use disorder treatment, encompassing a whole-person approach. They utilize evidence-based therapies paired with holistic approaches that address mental, physical, and emotional health. Located in a secluded, gated area, they offer a private space for anyone looking for substance use disorder care.

To learn more about Alta Mira, call 866-922-1350 or visit their website.