Roundtable: Facing the Opioid Crisis: MAT Policies and Evidence of Impact from Pennsylvania

Session Submission Type: Roundtable Session

Abstract

Elevated rates of opioid abuse pose a significant challenge for criminal justice agencies across the nation. Pennsylvania is no exception. Increases in criminal activity associated with prescription pain medication or heroin abuse, as well as high levels of inmates with a significant abuse history, are straining the resources of many correctional agencies. In response to this challenge, the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC), in conjunction with independent researchers, has developed a suite of treatment and policy responses. Medication-assisted Treatment (MAT) plays a prominent role in these new interventional approaches. This roundtable will discuss the foundational issues of the opioid crises in Pennsylvania, the development of the DOCs response and present findings from randomized and non-randomized program evaluations.

Sub Unit

• Area XIII: Roundtable Sessions

Chair

• Jordan Hyatt, Drexel University

Discussants

• Bret Bucklen, Pennsylvania Department of Corrections

• Nicolette Bell, Pennsylvania Department of Corrections

• Joseph Hafer, Pennsylvania Department of Corrections

• Tracy Smith, PA DOC

• Steven Seitchik, PA DOC

• Daniel Langleben, University of Pennsylvania