Opioid Use Disorder and Lack of Access to Treatment in U.S. Jails
Key Findings on Opioid Use Disorder Treatment in Jails
New research highlights a troubling trend regarding opioid use disorder treatment among incarcerated populations. A study involving over 900 jails across the United States revealed thatmore than half of these facilities do not provide medications to assist in the treatment of opioid addiction. This lack of access has serious implications for public health and safety.
The Impact of Medication Access on Recovery
Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), emphasizes the importance of connecting inmates with substance use disorder treatments during incarceration. “Offering substance use disorder treatment in justice settings helps to break the debilitating – and often fatal – cycle of addiction and incarceration,” she stated. Medications are crucial for minimizing the risk of relapse and overdose among the incarcerated.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.