Green, T. C., Clarke, J., Brinkley-Rubinstein, L., Marshall, B. D. L., Alexander-Scott, N., Boss, R., & Rich, J. D. (2018). Postincarceration Fatal Overdoses After Implementing Medications for Addiction Treatment in a Statewide Correctional System. JAMA psychiatry, 75(4), 405–407. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2017.4614 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29450443/ 

This research letter describes the results of implementing a comprehensive MAT program at correctional facilities in Rhode Island. The authors conclude that a large and clinically meaningful reduction in post-incarceration deaths from overdose among inmates released from incarceration after implementation of the statewide program was observed, contributing to an overall state population-level decline in overdose deaths. This article is a good reference for policymakers, advocates, and justice involved professionals to use as evidence in support of MOUD treatment for people living with opioid use disorder in correctional facilities. 

Bottom Line: It was found that after the introduction of a comprehensive MAT program at correctional facilities in Rhode Island, there was a 60.5% reduction in overdose deaths from 2016 to 2017 for individuals who had recently been incarcerated.