Substance Abuse Programs and Resources for Liver and Kidney Transplant Candidates

As part of your candidacy for a liver or kidney transplant, the Liver Transplant Committee requires participation in some form of substance use disorder treatment or evaluation. Our goal is to promote a healthy lifestyle before and after transplant, improving your chances of a successful outcome. This page provides information and resources to help you find qualified professionals and programs for long-term abstinence from addictive substances.

Understanding Substance Use Disorders:

• What is it? - Previously considered a moral failing, substance use disorders are now recognized as chronic illnesses like diabetes or high blood pressure. These conditions affect people of all backgrounds and can lead to compulsive or dangerous drug or alcohol use.
• Why do people develop them? - Several factors contribute, including genetics, environment, and stress levels. Long-term substance use can alter brain chemistry, increasing dependence. Early drug or alcohol use increases the risk.

Treatment Options:

• Detoxification (Detox): Supervised withdrawal from a substance, preparing you for further treatment.
• Hospital Inpatient: 24/7 care in a hospital setting for several days or weeks, often including detox and rehabilitation.
• Intensive Outpatient Programs: Regular appointments and counseling sessions for those with a stable living environment and reliable support.
• Individual Counseling: One-on-one therapy with psychologists, social workers, or counselors.
• Support Groups: Free or low-cost peer-support groups offered by various organizations.

Finding Help:

• Check your health insurance: Look for "behavioral health" benefits or provider search tools.
• Government Resources:
  • Medicare/Medicaid provider search: https://medicare.gov/care-compare/index.html
  • SAMHSA National Helpline (free, confidential): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
    • Offers referrals to treatment facilities, support groups, and community organizations. *FindTreatment.Gov also available for local treatment center searches.
• Community Resources:
  • The list below provides starting points for individual treatment, support groups, and inpatient/outpatient programs.

Important Notes:

• You must notify your transplant social worker or nurse coordinator of any treatment program participation.
• Documentation of participation may be required (a verification form is attached).
• We are here to support you! Contact us for additional assistance: MDMC_Transplant@mhd.com

AA Support Group - hosted by The Transplant Institute, Transplant Mentor Program

The Transplant Institute at Methodist Dallas and the Transplant Mentor Program are here to support your recovery journey. We offer weekly recovery meetings that provide a safe and welcoming space for patients, families, and friends facing addiction.

All meetings take place virtually via Zoom:

• Meeting ID: 927 7095 0653
• Link: https://methodisthealthsystem.zoom.us/s/92770950653

Meeting Formats Cater to Your Needs:

• 100% free no insurance, no co-pays, no out of pocket costs
• Alcoholism recovery services: 14 day residential, 3 month non-residential, 12-step meetings, & family support
• Phone screenings and admissions are accepted 365 days a year

For More Information Visit: MagdalenHouse.org

Additional Resources

• American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org/ (Find a therapist)
• Recovery Resource Council: https://recoverycouncil.org/

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): https://www.aa.org/ (including online meetings)
• AA Beyond Belief: https://www.aasecular.org/ (secular path within AA)
• Celebrate Recovery: https://celebraterecovery.com/ (Christ-centered 12-step program)
• SMART Recovery: https://smartrecovery.org/ (self-management and recovery training)

• Methodist Richardson Behavioral Health & Addiction Recovery: https://www.methodisthealthsystem.org/medical-services/behavioral-health-addiction-recovery/
• Serenity View Recovery Center: https://wwwserenityviewcom.flywheelsites.com/
• The Meadows Outpatient Center Dallas: https://meadowsoutpatient.com/
• Carrollton Springs: https://carrolltonsprings.com/
• The Menninger Clinic in Houston: https://www.menningerclinic.org/treatment/addictions-treatment/inpatient-programs/addictions-services-adults

We hope this information helps you find the support you need!