Spectrum has officially opened the doors to its new, state-of-the-art admissions building, marking a significant advancement in patient care and accessibility. This innovative facility is designed to streamline the admissions process, providing a single point of entry for individuals seeking treatment across a range of care levels, from detox to outpatient services. The project, years in the making, improves logistics and represents a bold step forward in how treatment services are delivered and experienced.
A Single “Front Door” for Seamless Care
One of the standout features of the new admissions building is its singular, centralized “front door.” In the past, patients were required to navigate multiple entry points depending on their specific needs, which often caused confusion and inefficiency. The new system consolidates all admissions into one streamlined process, guiding patients through each step of the way with ease. Whether they require detox services, inpatient care, or outpatient programs, everything now begins in one location.
This one-stop model significantly reduces admission complexity for patients, ensuring that they are connected to the right program quickly and efficiently.
State-of-the-Art Triage and Safety Features
Spectrum’s focus for the new admissions building was to provide patients with everything they might need right out of the gate. The new building features several groundbreaking enhancements to do just that, including:
- An All-Encompassing Call Center: This acts as a hub for all incoming inquiries, from patients seeking help to family members looking for resources. This centralized communication system helps streamline referrals and ensures that staff are prepared to offer guidance across all of Spectrum’s programs.
- Triage Rooms: Designed to address an important gap in care, these rooms offer a safe, comfortable space for patients who may arrive too impaired to complete the admissions process. Previously, such individuals were often sent to emergency rooms for stabilization, but now they can rest and recover onsite. The rooms are equipped with advanced treatment chairs that can recline into beds, allowing staff to monitor patients closely as they prepare for treatment.
Michelle Jones, the building’s director, explained the significance: “We treat detox symptoms and intoxication, but before, we didn’t have a place to put them. Now, we have these triage rooms where patients can take time to stabilize under close supervision, reducing the number of standouts.”
Enhanced Safety and Patient Experience
Safety was a top priority in designing the new facility. The space is carefully structured to ensure that staff can conduct thorough screenings of every patient, reducing the risk of substances entering the facility. This is especially crucial in protecting those who may have been in recovery for some time, as accidental exposure to substances could jeopardize their recovery.
Spectrum’s COO, Kristin Nolan, highlighted how the new building also improves the overall patient experience. “We wanted to create an environment that promotes hope and safety,” she explained. “And when you walk into this building, you feel that.”
In addition to enhancing safety, the admissions building also provides a more personalized, customer-centered approach. With all services housed under one roof, staff can now take their time explaining the admissions process to both patients and their families. This attention to detail helps demystify the treatment process, making it less intimidating for those seeking help.
Forward-Flow Layout: Moving Toward Recovery
A unique aspect of the building’s design is its “forward-flow” layout. From the moment a patient checks in, they move progressively through each stage of the admissions process, never backtracking. This efficient design mirrors Spectrum’s broader philosophy of pushing forward in recovery, providing patients with a clear, step-by-step path toward treatment.
“Once you’re done with your nursing intake, you’re going forward to the next one,” said Michelle. “We always say we’re going forward, not backward.”
The final step of the journey is transportation to the designated treatment program, underscoring the facility’s commitment to moving patients forward in their recovery process.
A First-of-Its-Kind Facility
Spectrum’s admissions building is the first of its kind, not just within the organization but across the field. As Kristin noted, “We wanted to be the first to do it.” The concept has already drawn significant attention from referral sources and partners who are eager to see the facility in action. Many have been “blown away” by the flow and design, hinting that this model may soon be adopted elsewhere.
A Barrier-Free Path to Treatment
Spectrum’s new admissions building is about breaking down barriers. The facility makes it easier than ever for individuals to walk in and receive the help they need without the usual obstacles that complicate access to treatment.
With this new facility, Spectrum is changing the way patients enter care. It sets a new standard for how treatment services are delivered – ensuring that hope, safety, and forward progress are at the heart of every individual’s journey toward recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction or a substance use disorder, call Spectrum Health Systems today at 1-877-MyRehab.
