Online Program

Oral

Despite high rates of opioid use among persons entering prisons and jails in the United States, evidence-based medication assisted therapies (MAT) remain unavailable in many correctional settings. Many incarcerated patients dependent on opioids suffer from withdrawal symptoms that may be inadequately treated, resulting in the use of drugs during their incarceration placing them at risk of blood borne infections, and of relapse and overdose after they are released. This session will explore the factors necessary for successfully implementing MAT programs as well as the barriers faced by systems wishing to implement such programs. The session will discuss the characteristics of available pharmaceutical agents, linkage to community care, and the human rights implications of the unavailability of MAT to opioid-dependent prisoners and detainees.

Session Objectives: Describe the burden of morbidity and mortality associated with opioid dependence in criminal justice-involved populations Define and differentiate available medication assisted therapies (MAT) for the treatment of opioid dependence Identify the prerequisites for successful MAT programs in correctional settings

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)