Desert Hope’s Cell Phone & Electronics Policy
Desert Hope Treatment Center strives to provide and maintain a safe therapeutic environment that promotes the safety, well-being, and recovery of patients. As such, we place some restrictions on patient access to and use of cell phones and other electronic devices during treatment. While we do allow patients to bring cell phones and other , we ask that patients adhere to the restrictions on their use, which may vary according to the patient’s level of care and other factors. Our policy is also in place to protect patient privacy and comply with HIPAA and other regulations.
Desert Hope Treatment Center recognizes that all patients have the right:
- To privacy.
- To be treated with dignity and respect.
- To be free from unnecessary searches.
- To retain and use personal property.
Our cell phone/electronics policy aims to protect each of these rights, while ensuring the optimal treatment experience for all patients.
When Are Phones & Electronic Devices Restricted?
Patients may bring their cell phones and electronic devices to Desert Hope Treatment Center; however, please be advised that upon admission, all cellular phones and electronic devices will be placed on a 3-day therapeutic hold. Patients will receive these items back when the hold is lifted, which is on day 4 after 5 p.m.
* We understand that critical and time-sensitive issues may arise that require patients to communicate via their cell phones. In these scenarios, clinicians may approve supervised cell phone use.
Will Phones/Electronics be Restricted at Any Other Times?
The staff at Desert Hope Treatment Center may place additional restrictions on electronic devices at any time based on program recommendations, the patient’s progress and adherence to the program, or behavioral/safety concerns.
Are Phones Limited during Treatment Hours?
Yes. Desert Hope staff may ask that patients not use their phones or other electronic devices during certain times (such as during clinical programming) and in certain locations.
Does Desert Hope Provide Charging Cords or Other Accessories?
No. Patients will need to furnish their own charging cords, headphones, earbuds, and other accessories.
Are Photos and Videos Allowed?
No. All patients, staff, and visitors at Desert Hope Treatment Center have a legal right to privacy, and we ask that everyone at the facility refrain from using their phones or any other electronic device to photograph, film, or record anyone within or on Desert Hope Treatment Center property.
What Happens if a Phone or Device is Lost, Stolen or Damaged?
Desert Hope will not be responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged patient cellular phones and electronic devices.