Betty Ford Center Expands Virtual Care to Support Addiction Recovery

The Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage is expanding its online services to meet the growing demand for accessible addiction and substance abuse recovery programs. With virtual care proving vital during the pandemic, the center is now reaching more individuals who face barriers to in-person treatment. Melissa Hawkins, a clinical supervisor at the center, oversees its virtual care program and emphasizes its many advantages. "It saves time and helps people who may struggle with anxiety or other challenges that make in-person visits difficult," Hawkins explains. Virtual group therapy sessions allow participants to check in on weekly stressors, share experiences, and receive professional guidance from the comfort of their own homes. The success of the program is evident. According to Betty Ford Center data, one year after completing treatment, 74% of participants report sobriety, 83% experience minimal alcohol or drug cravings, and 88% rate their overall quality of life as good or better. The move to virtual care aligns with the changing landscape of healthcare. Hawkins notes that the ease of online access could mean the difference between someone seeking life-saving help or going without support. By expanding these services, the Betty Ford Center is making recovery more accessible and helping people heal, one virtual session at a time. For more information, visit our newsroom.