Our Cell Phone & Electronics Policy
Oxford Treatment Center strives to provide and maintain a safe therapeutic environment that promotes the safety, well-being, and recovery of patients. As such, the facility has 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.
Oxford 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 Oxford Treatment Center; however, please understand that upon admission, there will be a 3-day therapeutic hold on the patient’s access to both their phone and electronic devices. When the hold is lifted, patients will have their phones and electronic devices returned on the 4th day after 5 p.m.
Please note that at Oxford, phone time is allowed from 4pm to 6pm daily during the initial 72-hour therapeutic hold period.
* 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 Oxford 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. Facility 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 the Facility 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 Oxford 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 Oxford Treatment Center property.
What Happens if a Phone or Device is Lost, Stolen or Damaged?
The facility will not be responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged patient cellular phones and electronic devices.