Starting recovery takes courage. Medical detox for veterans is the first necessary step when drug addiction or alcohol abuse takes hold. It’s a structured process that helps you safely stop using drugs or alcohol under medical supervision.
Over 632,000 veterans reported opioid misuse in 2023, according to a SAMHSA study. Many of these individuals also experience other common veteran conditions, like alcohol abuse, PTSD, or depression, which makes early treatment support even more important.
At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center in Biloxi, we specialize in helping veterans and active-duty personnel begin recovery the right way. We accept TRICARE and provide hands-on support with insurance claims, paperwork, and VA documentation.
Our medical detox program is designed to clear the body of substances while preparing you for long-term success.
Why Medical Detox Is Different for Veterans and Active-Duty Personnel
Combat exposure, long-term stress, and physical injuries can all contribute to substance use. Veteran recovery often requires a unique combination of medical and emotional factors that must be considered during detox.
Many carry both visible and invisible wounds. Trauma and anxiety can make withdrawal symptoms feel overwhelming. That’s why detox should never be done alone or at home.
“Veterans often enter treatment with layered medical and mental health issues. Medical detox helps us stabilize them while respecting what they’ve been through,” says Dr. Pamela Tambini, internal medicine and addiction specialist at MSDATC.
At our facility, we create a custom detox plan that reflects your service history, health background, and recovery goals.
What to Expect During the Detox Process
The detox process begins with a medical evaluation. From there, our team closely monitors your symptoms and provides 24/7 care throughout withdrawal.
Medical detox for veterans includes medications that are used to reduce discomfort and support a safe transition. Common prescriptions include:
- Subutex – Contains buprenorphine, which helps reduce opioid withdrawal without the risks of methadone
- Naltrexone – Used for alcohol and opioid detox, but only after at least 7 days of abstinence
- Vivitrol – Injectable naltrexone for long-term opioid maintenance, effective for up to one month
Most detox stays last five to seven days. For some, detox medications may continue after discharge as part of ongoing care.
We also track other medical needs, including heart rate, hydration, and nutrition. Mental health symptoms like anxiety or depression are flagged for follow-up treatment in later phases of recovery.
After the medical detox process, you will then proceed with one or more of our veteran rehab treatment programs.
Covered by TRICARE: We Help You File Everything
We make it easier to get started by accepting TRICARE. Our services are covered for retired and active-duty personnel from all four branches of the military, including the Space Force, Coast Guard, and National Guard.
That includes working directly with your insurer to confirm coverage before you arrive. Our staff also assists with VA-related claims and referrals. You won’t be stuck trying to figure out paperwork during treatment. You can focus on recovery while we handle the rest.
“Filing claims and getting pre-approvals can feel like a second job. We take that burden off our patients so they can begin treatment without delay,” Dr. Tambini explains.
Supporting Long-Term Recovery Beyond Detox
Medical detox stabilizes you physically. But recovery doesn’t stop there. That’s why we immediately follow detox with either inpatient or outpatient therapy.
Veteran patients often need support beyond addiction treatment. This includes trauma-informed therapy, family counseling, and life skills training. Our team also addresses chronic pain, sleep issues, and mental health concerns like PTSD and depression.
“The best results come when we treat the full person, not just the addiction. That starts with detox, but it extends through everything we do here,” says Dr. Tambini.
Located in Biloxi, Mississippi, we’ve been family-owned and operated since 2017. Our close-knit team stays involved in every phase of your care and is always just down the hall.
Start Your Recovery With Medical Detox in Mississippi
The sooner you begin detox, the sooner recovery can truly start. If you or someone you care about is ready to break free from drug addiction or alcohol abuse, help is available right now.
We’re ready to support you with a medically supervised detox plan that respects your service and prepares you for life after treatment. CLICK HERE or give our team a call toll-free at 855-334-6120.
FAQs About Medical Detox for Veterans
What is medical detox?
Medical detox is a supervised process that helps veterans safely stop using drugs or alcohol. It includes medication, monitoring, and personalized care.
Is detox covered by TRICARE?
Yes. We accept TRICARE and help you file claims and paperwork before you arrive.
How long does detox take?
Most detox programs last five to seven days, though some patients continue maintenance medications afterward.
What happens after detox is complete?
We offer inpatient and outpatient therapy to support long-term recovery, including mental health services, trauma care, and life skills training.
