ORSAM Supports Expanding Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment in Correctional Settings

On June 23rd, the Oregon Society of Addiction Medicine (ORSAM) sent a letter supporting Oregon’s 1115 waiver application for expanded Medicaid coverage in correctional settings. If approved, ORSAM emphasized the importance of ensuring that evidence-based addiction treatment is available in all correctional facilities throughout the state.

The letter focused on the benefits of expanding medication for addiction treatment (MAT) programs at Oregon’s correctional facilities. Incarcerated individuals are among the groups that are most directly impacted by addiction. ORSAM noted that incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people experience higher rates of substance use disorder and fatal overdose than the general population. Studies have shown that MAT is effective in improving a wide range of health outcomes. For example, ORSAM cited research linking the use of MAT to significant reductions in overdose mortality and recidivism among justice-involved individuals. Additionally, providing MAT during incarceration is a key opportunity to minimize treatment disruptions and reduce post-release drug use. In sum, expanding evidence-based treatment in correctional setting is an indispensable part of responding to the opioid epidemic in Oregon and nationwide.