De-addiction centers in Telangana, once seen as sanctuaries for recovery, are now marred by reports of abuse, neglect, and unscientific practices. Discover the grim realities faced by patients and the urgent need for systemic reform to restore trust and hope in rehabilitation facilities.
Introduction De-addiction centers are meant to be safe havens, offering support and structured rehabilitation for those battling substance abuse. However, in Telangana, disturbing reports have shed light on some centers failing their core mission. Instead of fostering healing, these facilities have allegedly subjected patients to abuse, neglect, and unscientific practices, leading to public outrage and a call for stricter regulations.
The Grim Reality of De-Addiction Centers
1. Allegations of Abuse and Neglect
Numerous patients have reported physical and mental abuse in these facilities. Instances of violence, improper confinement, and denial of basic human rights have surfaced, painting a grim picture of the treatment environment. Such practices not only impede recovery but also traumatize patients further, leaving them vulnerable.
2. Unqualified Staff and Unscientific Methods
Many centers reportedly employ unqualified personnel who lack the training to handle patients with complex addiction-related issues. Some practices include:
- Use of outdated or harmful detoxification methods.
- Lack of adherence to evidence-based therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
3. Inadequate Infrastructure
Several centers lack the necessary infrastructure to provide quality care. Overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and insufficient resources are common complaints. These deficiencies jeopardize patient health and hinder the rehabilitation process.
4. Exploitation and Financial Misconduct
Families of patients often bear exorbitant fees without receiving promised services. The lack of transparency in billing and unauthorized charges have further eroded trust in these facilities.
Factors Behind the Failures
1. Weak Regulatory Oversight
Despite existing laws, enforcement remains inconsistent. Many centers operate without proper licensing or regular inspections, allowing malpractices to flourish unchecked.
2. Stigma and Lack of Awareness
The social stigma surrounding addiction often discourages families from reporting abuse. Moreover, the absence of public awareness about patient rights and quality benchmarks in de-addiction care compounds the problem.
3. Profit-Driven Motives
The commercialization of healthcare has led some operators to prioritize profits over patient welfare. This approach undermines the ethical standards that should guide rehabilitation services.
Steps Towards Change
1. Stringent Monitoring and Licensing
The state government must enforce stringent licensing norms and conduct regular audits to ensure compliance. Penalizing non-compliant centers can act as a deterrent.
2. Training and Certification for Staff
Mandatory certification and continuous training for staff can ensure better patient care and adherence to evidence-based practices.
3. Empowering Patients and Families
Educating families about their rights and the standards of care can empower them to demand accountability and report violations.
4. Supportive Policies
Introducing subsidies or incentives for ethical centers and establishing more government-run facilities can reduce dependence on private players with questionable motives.
De-addiction centers in Telangana must refocus on their core mission: to heal and rehabilitate. This transformation requires collective action from the government, civil society, and healthcare providers. Only then can these facilities become safe spaces for recovery and hope.#Hydkhabar
About The Author
Ahssanuddin Haseeb