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Clinical Diagnostic Evaluation

FAQs

Why does the Betty Ford Center offer a Clinical Diagnostic Evaluation (CDE)?

The CDE was established in response to the need that licensing bodies (e.g., medical boards) and employers (e.g., airlines) had for a professional, objective and medically-based assessment process. A CDE is designed to determine a diagnosis; recommend appropriate treatment (if warranted); assess the individual's fitness for duty; and report our findings to the person and their referent.

Is a CDE available to anyone?

Yes. Although the program was originally designed for professionals in safety-sensitive positions, we offer the same evaluation process to anyone who is not quite sure whether they have a substance-related disorder or any other psychiatric condition. A CDE is an excellent way to help clarify the impact that a non-substance related psychiatric condition, such as depression or posttraumatic stress disorder, might have on an individual's ability to recover from a substance-related disorder.

Who would not be a candidate for a CDE?

The CDE process is capable of diagnosing most psychiatric conditions and it's best to talk to us if you're unsure as to whether or not a person could benefit from this process. However, in general, individuals who do not use substances with addictive potential might be better served by undergoing an evaluation at a facility that specializes in the treatment of non-substance related psychiatric disorders. Again, if you're not sure, call us and we will do our best to steer you in the right direction.

What are the benefits of a CDE?

A CDE at the Betty ford Center is respectful, collaborative, non-confrontational and educational. Every evaluation, like the individual going through the process, is unique. However, the benefits of a CDE remain the same for all and include; (1) a substantiated DSM-IV-TR diagnosis (based upon the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision); (2) an independent and professional assessment by a nationally-recognized treatment center; (3) a review of clinically relevant material and (4) an exit interview which summarizes our findings and offers an appropriate plan of action.

Help is available. So is hope.

Call our Admissions Counselors and allow our team to discuss options and walk you through the process.

800 434-7365