Pivovarova, E., Evans, E. A., Stopka, T. J., Santelices, C., Ferguson, W. J., & Friedmann, P. D. (2022). Legislatively mandated implementation of medications for opioid use disorders in jails: A qualitative study of clinical, correctional, and jail administrator perspectives. Drug and alcohol dependence, 234, 109394. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109394 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35349918/ 

This study conducted semi-structured interviews and focus groups with 61 jail and contracted staff from seven county jails to discuss MOUD at their facilities. The jails offer all three forms of MOUD due to previously passed legislation. It was found that legislation and funding helped increase acceptance of MOUD treatment within the jails, as well as communication between the facilities. Regular meetings and communication with jails already utilizing MOUD allowed for education and establishing programs. However, there were still some issues which arose, including staff that still held stigmatized belief about MOUD and those who felt their concerns were not being addressed. 

Bottom Line: 61 jail and contracted staff members from seven county jails participated in interviews and focus groups concerning MOUD treatment at their facilities and it was found that for implementation of MOUD programs to be successful, collaboration and flexibility from those involved is necessary.