St. Luke’s Level IV Medical Detoxification Unit
Many people find themselves challenged by substance use and dependency and are looking for help. However, having a medical condition along with substance dependency may limit available options for treatment. Other times, patients may avoid seeking treatment for medical conditions out of fear of experiencing uncomfortable and dangerous withdrawal while in the hospital. St. Luke’s University Health Network has opened a new Level IV Medical Detoxification Unit that is equipped to treat the most complex presentations of substance use disorder and is the only type of medical detoxification unit with the ability to simultaneously manage Substance Use Disorder while treating new or underlying medical conditions.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a disease that affects the brain that cause individuals to be unable to control cravings and can be detrimental to health as well as affect their work and home relationships. SUD often occurs in the presence of other medical problems, such as liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart failure, or other medical conditions. It can be associated with very uncomfortable or life threatening withdrawal and requires expert medical treatment to maximize comfort and minimize complications.
Under the direction of St. Luke’s Medical Toxicology physicians, we can safely and comfortably manage the detoxification process from alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines and other substances while effectively managing medical conditions. Our physicians are triple board certified in Addiction Medicine, Medical Toxicology and Emergency Medicine, and have extensive experience in treating addiction and withdrawal. Patients will also have the support and access to the many services and programs of St. Luke’s University Health Network.
Our 16-bed facility features warm and relaxing all private rooms to ensure patients feel safe and as comfortable as possible while getting the medical care they need.
Accessing Care
Access to this care can be acquired as a routine admission from our emergency departments or arranged directly from your primary care physician. After the medical detoxification process, assistance will be provided to arrange follow up for medical conditions and continued stabilization and treatment for substance use disorder, which may be individualized to include further inpatient or outpatient care.
Whether the reason for seeking care is for treatment of substance use or for medical conditions in the setting of substance use, St. Luke’s is here to provide the care you need and to help you live your best life going forward. We respect the courage and strength of the individual coming forward for help and we are dedicated to providing the care and support for you or your loved one.
To make a referral:
Patients are accepted to the unit following an evaluation by a primary care physician or emergency room physician. For questions regarding patient referrals, email: detox.referral@sluhn.org.
St. Luke’s Sacred Heart Campus
5 Tower (5th Floor)
421 W. Chew St.
Allentown, PA 18102