Frequently Asked Questions
Is Addiction a Disease?
Some might tell you there is a cure for addiction. We can get tangled up in the semantics of this statement, but the truth is all research and evidence points to the fact that addiction is a disease that can be put in remission through rigorous addiction treatment programs and ongoing maintenance. Addiction is not “cured” per se, because a cure would imply that you would no longer be at risk for abusing substances. Recovery from addiction might be compared to recovery from high blood pressure – as long as you maintain a healthy diet, exercise, and follow your physician’s recommendations, you can bring your blood pressure into the normal range. However, if you start eating junk food again, become more sedentary, increase your salt intake, and ignore your physician’s advice, your blood pressure will sky rocket again.
Should I attend a 30-day inpatient stay first?
Research shows the more time someone spends in addiction treatment, the better their chances of success. Although 30 days of in-patient treatment is the norm, we believe offering continued services improves your chances of recovery from addiction. This is why Affiliated Clinical Services offers strong after-care options with referrals to clinicians in your area. If you live locally, we offer one of the most comprehensive outpatient programs available, including an open-ended family program to help your loved ones understand the process of addiction recovery.
Will I get Suboxone or Vivitrol the day of my first appointment?
When you schedule your first appointment for our Suboxone or Vivitrol clinic, you will be seen by a licensed clinical therapist for an AODA Intake. At that time, the therapist will then refer you to our Suboxone/Vivitrol physician. It is our goal to have the patient be seen within 36 hours from intake by our physician to receive their MAT program induction.
How do I make an appointment?
To schedule an appointment, call 262-338-2717 between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM weekdays and ask to speak to the Intake Department. The Intake Representative will gather a brief history and some information from you, and schedule an appointment with a therapist for an intake assessment. Please note that if you are calling for an adult friend or family member, it is helpful to have the person with you when you call so we may talk to him/her. If the person is hesitant, we are able to offer suggestions on how to encourage him/her to seek treatment.
How long do I have to wait for my appointment? What if I am in crisis?
There may be a waiting period for services depending on clinician availability. Please be assured that we will do our best to schedule you for an appointment as soon as possible. If you are experiencing a crisis or have an urgent and emergent need, we will see you immediately.
We have staff on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to deal with emergencies. If you feel like you are in crisis and need immediate assistance, call Emergency Services at 262-338-2717. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911.
How much do services cost?
Affiliated Clinical Services accepts most commercial insurances. We do not accept Medicaid/Medicare. Please note that your co-pay or deductible is expected at the time of service.
Rates vary based upon the service provided, the length of the appointment and the programs for which you qualify. Our Intake Representative will review this information with you when you call for your appointment, or you may contact one of our Customer Service Representatives at 262-338-2717 for specific questions.
Is there financial assistance available if I don’t have health insurance?
Affiliated Clinical Services unfortunately cannot offer a financial assistance program for clients as we do not receive any funding or grant from the State. We also do not accept Medicaid insurance.
Can I come to Affiliated Clinical Services and see a psychiatrist for medication only?
We believe in a team-oriented and recovery-based treatment model. For this reason, and due to staffing limitations, our medical staff cannot be your sole provider. We do not offer a “meds only” service, instead offering our psychiatric services in concert with therapy and other services that may be included in your treatment plan. Please be advised that, as with any specialty medical service, there may be a waiting list to see one of our providers.
Affiliated offers consultation services to primary care providers. If your primary care provider would like a consultation or recommendations, he/she may make a referral for a one-time consultation with one of our providers. A fee is assessed for this service. Recommendations will be given to your primary care provider.
Can I call to see how my family member’s treatment is progressing?
We carefully adhere to the strict laws and standards protecting the privacy of our patient’s healthcare information. We are not able to share information about a patient unless he/she has signed a release form authorizing us to speak with a third party about their treatment.
How can I enroll in one of the support groups offered by Affiliated Clinical Services?
Our psychotherapy groups are only open to active patients of Affiliated Clinical Services. If you feel you are in need of AODA or mental health services, please call 262-338-2717 to schedule an appointment.
On occasion, some of our groups may be made available to individuals referred by the court system. Please call 262-338-2717 for more information.
Can my records be released to another party?
If you sign a release, we are able to release your records directly to you or to a third party of your request. Please note that once your records are released, we no longer have any control over what the individual or agency does with the information they obtain.
Patients or others who provide approved authorization for access to the medical record shall have only 1 copy made available. Medical record fees are as follows:
Pages 1-25 $1.08 per page
Pages 26-50 $0.80 per page
Pages 51-100 $0.53 per page
Pages 101 & Up $0.31 per page
Fees must be paid prior to the release of the requested documents.
My therapist and I can’t seem to connect. Can I make a change?
We realize that there is not a connection in every situation. We encourage you to talk openly and honestly with your therapist about your concerns, however, we do honor requests for change whenever possible.
How is ACS funded?
Affiliated Clinical Services is a Private Practice, for-profit clinic; therefore we do not receive any funding or grants through the State or County. ACS does accept most commercial insurances and self-pay clientele.