Getting started at ORS.

Three steps toward care

1. Start with a conversation

   Tell Clarence what is going on for you or the person you support. You can ask general questions without knowing a diagnosis or which program to choose.

2. Review needs, program fit, and benefits

   We explain how an assessment is arranged, discuss current program options, and review how to verify insurance. The assessment helps determine the appropriate level of care.

3. Understand the plan before starting

   If ORS is an appropriate fit, we discuss current openings, the recommended schedule, anticipated costs, and the admissions steps needed before treatment begins. A start date depends on completing that process.

Outpatient programs at ORS

The appropriate level of care depends on an assessment. Use this overview to prepare your questions.

California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) certification 560099AP covers outpatient and intensive outpatient alcohol and other drug services and is valid through August 31, 2028.

Check your insurance before beginning care

We can help verify benefits for commercial insurance plans. We check network status, any out-of-network benefits your plan offers, and whether authorization may be needed. We discuss anticipated costs before you begin care. Your insurer makes the final coverage and payment decision.

What might I have to pay?

Your plan may require a deductible (an amount you pay toward covered care before certain benefits begin), copayments (set fees), or coinsurance (a share of covered costs). Ask us to review your plan’s benefits, network status, and anticipated costs with you. Checking benefits does not guarantee the insurer will pay a claim.

Questions to bring to your first conversation

• Which program might fit my needs, and how is that assessed?
• What days and times would I attend?
• Which onsite or virtual options are available?
• What are the current openings and next steps?
• What does my insurance cover, and what costs should I anticipate?

You can begin with general questions. If records or insurance details are needed, ask the team how to provide them. Please avoid sending personal health information through general email.

Refer a client

Families and referring professionals can call about an adult who needs help with alcohol or drug use, including continued care after detox or residential treatment. We’ll discuss current openings and how to arrange an assessment.

1. Call Clarence McBride

   Reach admissions at (805) 360-4331 during office hours to discuss program fit and availability.

2. Arrange secure records transfer

   Call first for instructions on sending any requested records or insurance details securely. Use the general email inbox for general inquiries only.

3. Coordinate with permission

   Ask how the person can authorize communication with family or a referring professional. Information about another person’s treatment is shared only as permitted.

ORS does not provide overnight housing, onsite medical detox, or emergency services. Contact us to understand program fit before making referral arrangements.

Common admissions questions