Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

About Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center offers primary and specialty health care services for military members, veterans, and their families. It’s located in Houston, Texas. They have a dedicated department that specializes in treating addiction and substance use. You can pay for your care through self pay, private insurance or military benefits. Financial assistance is also available, and you’ll need a referral from your primary care provider to get in.

I like that this center offers multiple ways to get help and doesn’t expect you to follow a universal path. Once they perform an assessment and learn more about you, they’ll determine which services would best suit you. This might include individual or group counseling, support groups where you recover with your peers, medication or a combination of all three.

Their services incorporate several evidence based practices to address any underlying conditions. There’s motivational interviewing and motivational enhancement therapy to help you discuss important topics related to addiction, mental health, and recovery.

Facility Overview

535

Number of Available Beds

Latest Reviews

Jaycee Guffey

3 months ago on Google

Probably the worst VA experience I ve had to date. The level of negligence displayed by staff and passed off as healthcare is absolutely unacceptable. Even when care is referred to the community, this facility still finds ways to delay or obstruct treatment.

Erica Mitchell

3 months ago on Google

Beware the valet steals from ur vehicle and the VAPD on site says they don't enforce anything with the valet bc there's a sign that says they're not responsible... just make sure that you lock up ur valuables if you valet park..

David Schneider

3 months ago on Google

29 years dr hamill my provider he gets 29 gold stars va I think is the best

Rehab Score

Our Methodology

Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full Methodology

8.1 / 10

Gallery

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center TX 77030

The facilities at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, TX 1

The facilities at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, TX 2

The facilities at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, TX 3

The facilities at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, TX 4

The facilities at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, TX 5

Location

Other Forms of Payment

Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

Outpatient

Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.

Inpatient

Residential treatment programs are those that offer housing and meals in addition to substance abuse treatment. Rehab facilities that offer residential treatment allow patients to focus solely on recovery, in an environment totally separate from their lives. Some rehab centers specialize in short-term residential treatment (a few days to a week or two), while others solely provide treatment on a long-term basis (several weeks to months). Some offer both, and tailor treatment to the patient's individual requirements.

Intensive Outpatient

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are for those who want or need a very structured treatment program but who also wish to live at home and continue with certain responsibilities (such as work or school). IOP substance abuse treatment programs vary in duration and intensity, and certain outpatient rehab centers will offer individualized treatment programs.

Aftercare Support

Rehab aftercare programs are based on a model of continuing care and the premise that recovery is a life-long process requiring ongoing client support. Many rehab aftercare services include outpatient care, but clients often continue to receive support after being discharged from formal treatment. Case managers and care teams typically collaborate with clients to design their long-term care plan, which may include peer coaching, career counseling, and 12 step program induction, among other services.

12-Step

12 step programs promote participants' sustained sobriety through rigorous and ongoing peer coaching and personal spiritual growth. Participants routinely attend 12 step meetings, which are available multiple times per day, 365 days per year in most communities. This ensures that those in recovery have prompt access to the structure and support they need when they need it. These programs use spiritual precepts to address the root causes of addiction and encourage compassion, self-awareness, forgiveness, accountability, and acceptance.

Sober Living Homes

Residents of a sober living home in Texas reside at the halfway house with others who have agreed to abstain from substances and practice sober-living skills. The relationships and accountability formed here can help individuals strengthen their mental health and achieve long-term recovery. Residents share common spaces such as kitchens and back yards, share meals together, and share household responsibilities such as cooking and cleaning.

Intervention Services

Intervention services helps family or friends of addicts stage an intervention, which is a meeting in which loved ones share their concerns and attempt to get an addict into treatment. Professional intervention specialists can help loved ones organize, gather, and communicate with an addict. They can guide intervention participants in describing the damage the addict's behavior is causing and that outside help is necessary to address the addiction. The ideal outcome of an intervention is for the addict to go to rehab and get the help they need.

24-Hour Clinical Care

24-hour clinical care in Texas provides a safe environment for medical detox. This setting is crucial to provide medical care during withdrawal. Certain withdrawal symptoms can cause life-threatening conditions, but patients in a supervised clinical setting have treatment readily available to address any symptoms before they become severe. Treatment can also be provided for co-occurring physical and mental health issues.

Medically Assisted Detox

Drug and alcohol addiction often takes a heavy toll on one's body. Over time, a physical dependence can develop, meaning the body physiologically needs the substance to function. Detox is the process of removing drugs and/or alcohol from the body, a process that can be lethal if mismanaged. Medical detox is done by licensed medical professionals who monitor vital signs and keep you safe, healthy, and as comfortable as possible as you go through detox and withdrawal.

Treatments

The goal of treatment for alcoholism is abstinence. Those with poor social support, poor motivation, or psychiatric disorders tend to relapse within a few years of treatment. For these people, success is measured by longer periods of abstinence, reduced use of alcohol, better health, and improved social functioning. Recovery and Maintenance are usually based on 12 step programs and AA meetings.

During rehab in Texas, you'll deal with underlying issues that contribute to addiction. By addressing these challenges and learning healthy ways to cope with them, you'll develop strategies that help you live a drug-free lifestyle.

A combined mental health and substance abuse rehab has the staff and resources available to handle individuals with both mental health and substance abuse issues. It can be challenging to determine where a specific symptom stems from (a mental health issue or an issue related to substance abuse), so mental health and substance abuse professionals are helpful in detangling symptoms and keeping treatment on track.

Opioid rehabs specialize in supporting those recovering from opioid addiction. They treat those suffering from addiction to illegal opioids like heroin, as well as prescription drugs like oxycodone. These centers typically combine both physical as well as mental and emotional support to help stop addiction. Physical support often includes medical detox and subsequent medical support (including medication), and mental support includes in-depth therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.

Programs

Adult Program

Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.

Young Adult Program

Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.

LGBTQ Program

Recovery is most successful when clients feel accepted and validated by their peers and treatment providers. Facilities that offer LGBTQ-inclusive programming are committed to creating a safe space where everyone can grow and recover without fear of judgment or discrimination. They will have dedicated policies in place to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters free expression.

Military Program

Serving in the military is both mentally and physically challenging, and can result in trauma that persists even after combat ends. Military programs are tailored to the specific and often complex needs of active duty personnel, veterans, and military families. Clients often access these programs through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Clinical Services

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.

In individual therapy, a patient meets one-on-one with a trained psychologist or counselor. Therapy is a pivotal part of effective substance abuse treatment, as it often covers root causes of addiction, including challenges faced by the patient in their social, family, and work/school life.

Research clearly demonstrates that recovery is far more successful and sustainable when loved ones like family members participate in rehab and substance abuse treatment. Genetic factors may be at play when it comes to drug and alcohol addiction, as well as mental health issues. Family dynamics often play a critical role in addiction triggers, and if properly educated, family members can be a strong source of support when it comes to rehabilitation.

Life skills trainings involve all the skills a person must have in order to function successfully in the world. These include time management, career guidance, money management, and effective communication. Truly successful addiction recovery is based on the ability to not only live substance-free, but to thrive. Life skills teaches the practical necessities of functioning in society, which sets clients up for success in life, and therefore sobriety.

Amenities

Private Transportation
Residential Setting
Private Rooms

Staff & Accreditations

Staff

Francisco Vazquez, MBA

Medical Center Director

Lindsey Crain, MHA, FACHE

Deputy Medical Center Director

Charlie Lan, D.O.

Chief of Staff

Julianna Cotton, DNP, RN, NE-BC

Acting Associate Director Patient Care Services

Jeremiah Jackson, MPH, FACHE

Acting Associate Director

Brent Kratky

Chief Experience Officer

Accreditations

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a non-profit organization that specifically accredits rehab organizations. Founded in 1966, CARF's, mission is to help service providers like rehab facilities maintain high standards of care.

CARF Accreditation: Yes
Accreditation Number: 248027

The Joint Commission, formerly known as JCAHO, is a nonprofit organization that accredits rehab organizations and programs. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commision's mission is to improve the quality of patient care and demonstrating the quality of patient care.

Joint Commission Accreditation: Yes
Accreditation Number: 4510

Contact Information

(713) 791-1414

Website

2002 Holcombe Blvd
Houston, TX 77030

Get Help Now - 346-552-8173

Reviews of Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

3.2/5 (100 reviews)

452

160

364

Google Reviews

3.2 (100 reviews)

1 month ago

If I could give zero stars, I would. For a hospital dedicated to serving Veterans, the lack of care, urgency, and concern is absolutely unacceptable. Communication is nonexistent, appointments are consistently overbooked, and the pharmacy staff are shockingly incompetent. We were told medication would be filled early in the morning—yet by 5:00 PM, we were still waiting. The way veterans are treated here is disgraceful. These individuals deserve first-class service in return for their service, yet the system continues to fail them time and time again. It’s heartbreaking that we can’t choose to seek care or schedule surgeries outside the VA without incurring extra costs—because if we had the choice, we’d never step foot in that facility again. Please, do better. Is this truly how you treat those who’ve fought for and served this country? It’s beyond disappointing—it’s shameful.

rita sparrow

I used to hate this place, beginning with the valet parking, most guys didn’t speak English, seemed to be from the Middle East. Most Dr’s and nurses were not born and raised in the USA, most had no “bedside manners” It was Crowded, felt dirty, and the employees didn’t seem to care about Veterans. That was back in 2009-2019 I hope it’s improved since then.

ann ehrhart

None of the departments seem to have a reliable system for answering calls, and the online appointment platforms are frequently down for various reasons. While I understand the challenges of being short-staffed, there is still a responsibility to provide consistent support to patients and their families.

Mike Douglas

2 months ago

Great professional medical teams. They May I have had some problems in the past. They are now at the top of their game.... Thank you Sgt , Mike F Douglas United States Army

Andre Parks

Over the past 30 days, I’ve had to visit the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center twice. Once for a follow-up due to complications to an procedure and the other to the ER for a spider bite. Unfortunately, both experiences have fallen well below the standard of care veterans deserve. During my follow-up, I was placed in an exam room where a resident eventually entered with two other staff members. None of them introduced themselves upon entering. As I sat there unclothed and vulnerable, one of them attempted to begin a physical exam before I had to stop and ask, “Who are you?” Only then did they apologize and state their titles. In healthcare, the standard of care must begin with the basics: a proper introduction, respect for patient dignity, and clear communication. To make matters worse, I was in the ER this past weekend due to a spider bite. A gentleman called me back to a room and entered and exited twice before finally introducing himself as the nurse practitioner. Veterans deserve better. We deserve care that is respectful, transparent, and professional from the moment we walk in. These experiences are disappointing, not just as a patient, but as someone who served and knows what accountability and professionalism should look like. I'm sharing this not out of frustration alone, but in hopes that someone in a position to address these systemic lapses sees this and acts. Patients shouldn't have to ask who is providing their care we should know, from the start.

Tonya Sias

I could go on and on about this hospital but everyone in all other reviews have already said it. This hospital needs a complete reorganization. The ER does not care that you come in in pain. I won't say anyone specific because this isn't anonymous but there is no urgency for sick, hurt or ill people coming in to the ER. Thanks to the guy on the left of the ER check in desk. He was doing it all. Also, THE PHONE NUMBER FOR THE DENTAL CLINIC ISN'T CORRECT ON GOOGLE. YOU CANNOT VERIFY DENTAL APPOINTMENTS ON MYHEALTHEVET. How many dental appointments get missed. I'm sure a lot. This seems like such an easy fix that should have been addressed. Come on Michael E. Debakey... please fix this hospital. This is the 4th largest city in the US. There are A LOT of vets here. 2 stars because the Women's Health Clinic has a really good mix of people. Not all but most.

Damien Jr

I came in with severe back pain through ER around 9pm, waited near triage til about 11pm for them to tell me no rooms available and I have been discharged by the doctor. I will get a shot and meds, mind you I came in on a stretcher bc I have a T hernia Disk disease so my back locks up at times and I cannot stand or walk. The nurse told the EMS I would need to be transferred to a wheelchair . “ ma’am I cannot stand as to why I came in on a stretcher” then was told no Wheelchair available. When I say believe the reviews, please READ and believe the reviews. No one said anything to me or the EMS workers for 2 hrs then nurse comes to say that Doc has discharged me. They are very RUDE and have a bad attitude. So much for being a Veteran.

Scott Cantrell

I have no complaints with Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center. I often hear others criticize the VA, but my personal experience is that everyone from the doctors, the nurses, the administration and the assistants have been nothing but courteous and professional with me. To the entire staff at Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center, Thank You for what you do!

Maria Madrid

3 months ago

My father have receive excellent care since he move to Houston 10 yr ago.

Tammy Pitman

Best hospital experience EVER!! Like one of the other reviews mentioned, the custodians, transporters, lab, and EVERYONE in the IN Department on the 2nd floor deserves praise!! The bedside manners, the explanations, the pre and post op care was phenomenal. I wish I knew everyone's name, but all of them were knowledgeable, pleasant, and friendly.

Alejandro P

The pharmacy should do a better job at checking orders that are taken by their "relief/break team". I have been waiting for over a month on my important medication and never go it delivered. I called 2 weeks ago to check on it and the person that answer told me he would reorder for me. 2 weeks later I called today and they use the excuse of their assistance team not reordering after my last phone call. Who knows if I will get my meds. 😮‍💨

Stephanie

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1 Star – If I could give zero, I would) This VA facility is an absolute disgrace to veterans. I had a 9:00 AM appointment and arrived early—yet I spent 45 minutes driving in circles trying to find parking. By the time I made it inside at 9:25 AM, I was told I couldn’t be seen because I was “late,” despite the fact that I drove over an hour to get here and the lack of parking is a known, unresolved issue. This facility continues to overbook appointments without any regard for whether veterans can physically get in the building on time. It’s appalling that they refuse to factor in their own infrastructure failures as part of the veteran experience. What’s worse is that when veterans do manage to get in on time, we’re often left sitting in the waiting area for 15–30 minutes before even being called—so the excuse of “lateness” is clearly selective and punitive. I spoke to several VA employees who admitted they were late themselves because of the same parking nightmare. I also left a complaint with Patient Advocacy, but honestly, this issue is systemic and ongoing—and I will be reporting it to every level necessary until something changes. This is not just about inconvenience—it’s about respect. Veterans deserve better. Do better.

Overall Experience

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Date Submitted

Last 6 months
Last 12 months
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About Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

Facility Overview

Latest Reviews

Rehab Score

Gallery

Location

Other Forms of Payment

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

Outpatient

Inpatient

Intensive Outpatient

Aftercare Support

12-Step

Sober Living Homes

Intervention Services

24-Hour Clinical Care

Medically Assisted Detox

Treatments

Programs

Adult Program

Young Adult Program

LGBTQ Program

Military Program

Clinical Services

Amenities

Staff & Accreditations

Staff

Francisco Vazquez, MBA

Lindsey Crain, MHA, FACHE

Charlie Lan, D.O.

Julianna Cotton, DNP, RN, NE-BC

Jeremiah Jackson, MPH, FACHE

Brent Kratky

Accreditations

Contact Information

Reviews of Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

Reviews

Google Reviews

Write a review for Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

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