Can I Still Go to Work During Residential Inpatient Rehab?

When you’re seeking treatment for drug or alcohol abuse, you may have hope that you can obtain sobriety after enrolling in rehab. Both inpatient and outpatient programs are available for those who are seeking to gain the support of a team of professionals. If you want to know if you can still go to work during residential inpatient rehab, there are a few main facts to understand to ensure you know what to expect and can select the right rehab program for you.

Inpatient Rehab Work Requirements

Most inpatient rehab programs require patients to be enrolled full-time and don’t leave to spend time at work to increase the risk of success at the facility. Outpatient programs are considered to be more accommodating with work schedules because patients don’t live full-time at the facility and can leave to spend time at home or at their place of employment.

Fortunately, there are still options available for individuals who want to continue their employment while still enrolling in a residential inpatient rehab program. There are different options like WorkFlex, which allow patients to work remotely through virtual work. This offers flexibility to different types of adults and is often approved by different residential rehab programs.

Dedicated work schedules can work around the schedule at the rehab facility five to seven days a week. Patients are also provided a confidential and private setting with meal service provided.

Those who are interested in qualifying for this type of program must commit to completing their inpatient program. Patients also have the option of choosing to disclose their location to their employer or can withhold it based on their personal preference.

Can I Get Fired for Enrolling in a Residential Inpatient Rehab Program?

By law, you cannot get fired for attending rehab to obtain sobriety from drugs or alcohol. The Americans With Disabilities Act and Family and Medical Leave Act was created to prevent discrimination against individuals who are seeking help for substance abuse. You can take up to 12 weeks of leave to enroll in a residential inpatient rehab program without the risk of termination.

The law does not require the employer to pay your salary or wages during the leave of absence until you return. There are a few qualifications to be protected by the act, which include working full-time. Contractors or seasonal workers are not eligible. The employer must also keep the information confidential without disclosing it to other employees in the workplace.

If you’re not eligible to maintain your employment, it’s important to consider other options available. Outpatient programs can allow you to participate in group and individual therapy to ensure you can seek professional support.

Telling Your Employer About Inpatient Rehab

Remaining honest about why you will be taking a leave of absence is necessary to ensure you can take time off and don’t risk losing your job. Notify your employer via email or a letter to ensure everything is in writing, which will allow your rights to be protected. Provide the information or a copy of your notification to the human resources department.

It’s also necessary to review your employer’s policies regarding substance abuse and insurance information. Provide your employer with several weeks of notice to ensure they can plan accordingly by passing on your responsibilities to another team member.

Communicate when you plan to complete the residential inpatient rehab program and how you look forward to increasing your productivity once you achieve sobriety. Keep in mind that any changes in your pay or schedule due to your addiction are considered illegal and discriminatory.

Completing the Rehab Program and Returning to Work

Once you complete a residential inpatient rehab program, it’s important to adhere to a Return-to-Work-Agreement that is in place where you work. This may require undergoing drug testing, abstaining from drugs or alcohol, paying for drug screening, and following the suggestions and guidelines of substance abuse treatment professionals.

Knowing what to expect when it comes to remaining employed when you enroll in a residential inpatient rehab program can allow you to plan accordingly. You can get a better understanding of your rights and make the best decision for your future as you utilize different resources for substance abuse. Call us at 855-334-6120.