A chemical use or rule 25 assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a licensed alcohol and drug counselor. During the evaluation, the person being evaluated takes part in a conversational interview. The licensed assessor asks a series of questions to get a better understanding of a person’s alcohol and/or drug use history, medical history, and current life. The chemical assessment is sometimes referred to as an alcohol assessment or chemical dependency evaluation – these assessments are often court ordered (such as following a DUI or DWI). Call (612) 249-3656 to schedule a private, independent chemical assessment.
The stakes are high with these evaluations. The involved parties that requested the assessment, such as a judge or probation agent, will want to see the results of the rule 25 chemical assessment – and expect that you follow through with any recommendations. If alcohol treatment or rehab is recommended, the person will be expected to complete the treatment program – even if that person does not believe it would be beneficial or if that person was misdiagnosed.
All too often, individuals call up their local for-profit alcohol/drug treatment center, out of convenience, to complete their chemical assessment. The for-profit treatment center assessor oftentimes acts as a recruiter and marketer for their treatment program. When this occurs, there is a strong conflict of interest making it difficult for a person to get a fair, unbiased evaluation. Individuals oftentimes have a bad experience, feeling pressured and recruited, despite not feeling as though they have an underlying addiction problem. What’s more, individuals who actually have a problem get recruited directly into the for-profit alcohol/drug treatment center where they did the assessment – instead of the best possible treatment program available in the area.
Scheduling a chemical “rule 25” assessment with a private, independent assessment agency is of the utmost importance. First, the person will receive a fair assessment by an evaluator that is not affiliated with a for-profit treatment center because there is not a conflict of interest. Second, private, independent assessors refer a person seeking alcohol or drug treatment into the best possible treatment options available. Third, private, independent assessors are more likely to consideration what’s medically appropriate - plus will listen to your wants and needs – instead of being influenced by what is profitable for a treatment center.
For a fair, truly independent chemical rule 25” assessment, dial (612) 249-3656 to schedule through Avitity Health – Minnesota’s premiere independent testing agency. Assessments are available in person or via telemedicine (secure, two-way videoconferencing).
The following governmental and non-profit resources can be helpful for Shakopee residents. 1st, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration maintains a 24/7 national hotline. Second, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has informative articles on addiction. Third, the American Board of Medical Specialties provides a search to locate an addiction medical doctor in your area.