Substance Use Treatment for Medically Complex Clients 

At Pyramid Healthcare, our medically monitored intensive inpatient programming (ASAM level 3.7MM) is designed for individuals seeking treatment who also suffer from complex medical conditions. This level of care is specifically equipped to support clients with co-occurring acute or chronic biomedical conditions, ensuring safe stabilization and reducing the risk of medical complications. Our medically monitored residential programs are ideal for patients with advanced comorbidities, complex medication regimens or those requiring frequent medical interventions. Treatment is delivered in a structured, intensive inpatient setting with 24/7 access to nursing and physician care.

We specialize in treating clients whose substance use is complicated by chronic conditions, polypharmacy or active health issues that require daily medical oversight. Our integrated approach ensures both addiction treatment and physical healthcare are delivered with consistency, compassion and clinical excellence.

General Medical/Nursing Requirements

Clients in medically monitored treatment programs typically require daily medical and nursing oversight to help stabilize acute medical symptoms and to coordinate specialty services and diagnostics (e.g., lab testing, medical consultations). On-site support includes access to toxicology, wound care and medication management. This integrated model is essential for clients whose treatment plan is complicated by unstable medical conditions or the need for frequent reassessment.

Examples of Appropriate Client Presentations

Advanced Liver Disease Monitoring

Patients with a history of liver disease—such as hepatitis, alcoholic cirrhosis or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis—need specialized interventions during intensive inpatient. We provide monitoring for signs of hepatic decompensation (e.g., jaundice, ascites, encephalopathy), regular lab testing of LFTs, coagulation profiles and ammonia levels, and prompt action for abnormal values to prevent progression to liver failure. These interventions are critical for mitigating withdrawal-related stress on hepatic systems.

Wound Care and Infection Monitoring

Our medical team supports clients with wounds common in SUD populations, including abscesses, xylazine-related skin ulcers and surgical or pressure wounds. Nursing staff provide wound assessments, dressing changes and infection surveillance, with antibiotic support as needed. We coordinate care with external wound care specialists to ensure continuity of treatment without interrupting the recovery process.

Diabetes Management

Substance use and withdrawal can destabilize blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. We offer blood glucose monitoring, insulin administration and medication adjustments to prevent hypo- or hyperglycemia. Medical staff respond promptly to changes in metabolic status and help manage symptoms in collaboration with the client’s endocrinologist if applicable.

Cardiovascular Monitoring

Clients with cardiac disease or hypertension may experience exacerbated symptoms during intensive inpatient. Our protocols include monitoring vital signs, weight and fluid status, regular or urgent EKGs and adjustments in cardiac medications in response to arrhythmias, CHF, or PE risks. This allows clients with underlying cardiovascular instability to remain safe during their treatment stay.

Multiple Comorbidities, Complex Medication Regimens, and Frailty

For individuals with complex medical profiles and those who are on multiple prescription medications, our intensive inpatient team provides administration and monitoring of all daily medications, along with any required medication adjustments based on labs and observed side effects. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients who require close medical-nursing coordination due to overlapping physical and mental health needs.

Why Choose Pyramid Healthcare’s Medically Monitored Intensive Inpatient Program?

Clients with substance use disorders and complex medical comorbidities are often difficult to place, leading to extended and unnecessary stays in Emergency Departments while awaiting appropriate care. Referring professionals can trust that Pyramid Healthcare provides a high level of medical support within a substance use treatment setting. Our team includes physicians, nurses, behavioral health clinicians and care coordinators who collaborate to meet each client’s full spectrum of needs—from addiction care to chronic disease management. We also provide thorough discharge planning, including medication reconciliation and connections to follow-up care.

Refer with Confidence

If your client presents with unstable vitals, complex comorbidities or medication management concerns, Pyramid Healthcare’s medically monitored intensive inpatient program offers the clinical structure and safety they need. Contact our admissions team today to make a referral or learn more about admission criteria and availability.

Available at these facilities:

  • Detox & Residential

    Dallas, PA

  • Detox & Residential

    East Stroudsburg, PA

    Hillside