top of page
Woman on cellphone at cafe

FAQs

Wavy block.png

Please note we do not routinely operate outside of normal working hours. 

  • In an emergency call 000

  • If you need directing to an appropriate service now, please contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222 or healthdirect.gov.au

  • If you are feeling suicidal or in crisis Lifeline provide 24 hour crisis support on 13 11 14, or you can contact the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467

  • If you need support through the Coronavirus pandemic headtohealth provide a range of resources and beyondblue provide Coronavirus mental wellbeing support

  • If you are feeling acutely unwell please contact your out of hours GP or nearest emergency department

What is the Clean Slate Clinic?

>

Evidence-based detox support service for Australians looking to detox from home. 

Can I detox from alcohol at home?

>

Most people can safely be detoxed at home, but you would need an assessment with a nurse to ensure it is safe for you.

How does it work?

>

Preparation (2-3 weeks)

  • One of our nurses will assess your suitability with you

  • You’ll have access to our online resources to support you through the detox

  • Finding your support person and local GP

  • We will do some basic tests, including a blood test

  • We will build a vitamin regime with you

  • You’ll talk to our Clean Slate GP managing your detox

 

Detox (1 week)

  • You’ll have a daily video call with one of our nurses 

  • You’ll have a daily medication regime to relieve withdrawal symptoms and cravings

  • Daily breathalyzer and withdrawal screening 

 

Aftercare (12 months)

  • Post detox review with the Clean Slate GP and your allocated nurse 

  • Nurse review weekly for 3-4 weeks then at month 3, 6 and 12. 

  • You’ll have access to prescribed anti-craving medication if suitable

  • Access to multiple peer-supported 'SMART Recovery' meetings each week, facilitated by our trained team

  • Signposting and referral to other support services

  • You’ll have an individual care plan

How much does it cost?

>

Our service is currently available privately for all clients. Additionally, we have Government funded places available in select Primary Health Networks, as well as for private health members with full psychiatric cover under a number of insurers. We hope to be able to extend our funded access to more clients in the future. ​

  • Is the program covered by Medicare?
    Unfortunately no, not at this time.
  • Can I skip Phase 1 (Preparation) and start detox right away?
    Assessment and preparation are a very important part of the program, where we ensure an individual is physically and psychologically ready for detox. This is to ensure safety for each client. The changing of relationship with alcohol does start with a period of mindful drinking, which allows us to identify any triggers that you may have.
  • I stopped drinking or went through a detox elsewhere. Can I still go through the program?
    Yes, we offer a tailored aftercare support program for those who have already completed detox. You can find more information on this service here.
  • Do I need to tell anyone?
    We are a confidential service and will not share information with anyone without consent (except where required by law). However, we encourage every client to have a support person for safety and support, which will be discussed in the first appointment by the nurse. Ideally, a GP is also involved to ensure the continuity of care post-detox.

Will my information be kept confidential?

>

Yes. Clean Slate Clinic is a strictly confidential service. Our clients privacy is our highest priority. Your data will not be shared unless a) we have your consent or b) we are legally required to do so*. 

​

*Mandatory reporting to professional bodies may legally apply if your occupation carries the possible risk of harm to the public, if your duties are performed while intoxicated. This will only be done following discussion with you, and where you are unable, or unwilling to complete the report yourself.

​

Read our Privacy Policy here

What can I do whilst I'm waiting for my first appointment?

>

Once you’ve completed the suitability test, you will receive an email directing you to schedule a call with our team.

 

We don’t advise anyone to change their drinking habits until they've spoken with our team. 

Can I still go to work during my detox?

>

This may be possible, depending on your individual circumstances. You should discuss this with the nurse in your initial assessment. 

Do I need to tell anyone I'm going through a detox?

>

To undergo the Clean Slate Clinic you will need a close friend or family member to support you through your detox and to inform your local GP you are going through the program. Beyond that you are not required to inform your employer or anyone else. 

Do I have to tell my GP?

>

You will need a local GP to support you in the delivery of ongoing care and management, depending on your individual circumstances.

Can you prescribe anti-craving medications like naltrexone (revia), acamprosate (campral) or disulfiram (antabuse)?

>

Yes. These will be considered as part of your personalised care plan. 

How can I make an enquiry or complaint about the Clean Slate Program?

>

For complaints or feedback please fill out our feedback form here. For other enquiries reach out to support@cleanslateclinic.com

Our complaints process

Our team is committed to addressing any concerns or issues encountered promptly and effectively. Once you've submitted your complaint via the above Clean Slate feedback form, our team will follow the below process to address your submission accordingly:

​

  1. Clean Slate will acknowledge your complaint within 7 days by email, phone or letter.

  2. Clean Slate will investigate the complaint and provide you with a response within 28 days, stating what was found and what was done.

​

Please note that if your matter has not been resolved to the satisfaction of all parties once a response has been received from Clean Slate, you can report your concern to the relevant State Health Complaints Commissioner, the National Privacy Commissioner or the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. You can find further details about each relevant agency below:

For concerns about information privacy and freedom of information:

Please contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner here.

  • Is the program covered by Medicare?
    Unfortunately no, not at this time.
  • Can I skip Phase 1 (Preparation) and start detox right away?
    Assessment and preparation are a very important part of the program, where we ensure an individual is physically and psychologically ready for detox. This is to ensure safety for each client. The changing of relationship with alcohol does start with a period of mindful drinking, which allows us to identify any triggers that you may have.
  • I stopped drinking or went through a detox elsewhere. Can I still go through the program?
    Yes, we offer a tailored aftercare support program for those who have already completed detox. You can find more information on this service here.
  • Do I need to tell anyone?
    We are a confidential service and will not share information with anyone without consent (except where required by law). However, we encourage every client to have a support person for safety and support, which will be discussed in the first appointment by the nurse. Ideally, a GP is also involved to ensure the continuity of care post-detox.

For all other concerns:

Please refer to the below agency information, categorised by state -

Woman on cellphone
bottom of page