The American Correctional Association and the American Society of Addiction Medicine issued a joint statement supporting the use of evidence-based treatments for individuals with opioid use disorders, including medication assisted treatments. Recommendations for correctional systems and programs were offered and were divided into 4 categories: Screening/Prevention, Treatment, Reentry and Community Supervision Considerations, and Education. Their recommendations include the screening of everyone who enters a jail or prison for opioid use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders using a reliable and valid instrument, considering continuing the current treatment an individual was receiving prior to entering a correctional institution, reassessing individuals with opioid use disorders 4-6 weeks prior to release or reentry to determine if medication assisted treatment is appropriate, beginning treatment 30 days prior to release if possible and appropriate, providing an immediate appointment to a community provider for ongoing treatment upon release, and providing training and education to individuals with opioid use disorders, their support systems, and all justice system staff.

---

Citation:

American Society of Addiction Medicine. (2018). Joint public correctional policy statement on the treatment of opioid use disorders for justice involved individuals. Retrieved from https://www.asam.org/advocacy/find-a-policy-statement/view-policy-statement/public-policy-statements/2018/03/20/joint-public-correctional-policy-statement-on-the-treatment-of-opioid-use-disorders-for-justice-involved-individuals