Predictors of Opioid Treatment Engagement and Completion: Preliminary Results of a Pre-Trial Diversion Program

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

Connecticut has been struggling to address the significant increase in opioid addiction rates over the past decade and its effect on bail services and the pre-trial incarcerated population. One response has been to pilot a pre-adjudication drug court type program in four Connecticut courts. This program targets nonviolent pretrial defendants suffering from opiate addiction and who otherwise are not likely to be released via bond or another diversion mechanism. By virtue of lengthier criminal history and more complex clinical needs, this target population is inherently higher risk than might otherwise be considered for diversion programs. A significant challenge for these programs is to successfully engage clients and continue to engage them through completing their treatment. This study presents preliminary results of the four-year evaluation of this Federally funded pilot program in Connecticut. We will focus on identifying those factors associated with client engagement and completion. These factors will consist of demographics, criminal risk, supervision and treatment compliance, level of contact, prior treatment, and criminal history. We will also explore the personal and systemic barriers that may negatively influence treatment engagement and completion.

Authors

• Stephen M. Cox, Central Connecticut State University

• Eugena Givens, Central Connecticut State University

• Michelle Cubellis, Central Connecticut State University

• Hannah Barger, Central Connecticut State University