This week, the Kent County Correctional Facility and its community partners reached a milestone by completing its last phase of implementation of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) through induction. This was said to be a "humbling moment" for the agency. 

From the start, the vision behind the program focused on the continuation of sobriety and the reduction of deaths post-incarceration for individuals suffering from substance use disorder upon their release from a correctional setting. The collaborative efforts from Vitalcore medical supervisors, the 61st District Drug Court, Network 180, and local clinics provided the Kent County Correctional Facility with the tools necessary to identify individuals with substance use disorder and provide them with medication, counseling, and skills necessary for reintegration.

The MAT program started as a pilot in January 2018 and benefited 127 individuals within its first year. The program utilized grant funds to establish partnerships and programs for the incarcerated population. The jail currently has four on-site MAT employees who engage with approximately 100 individuals monthly; however, there is a growing demand for assistance within the correctional facility. The recent Induction Phase of this program is being implemented after two years of development. This final phase reflects a commitment to identifying and assisting those who have not been formally recognized or treated for substance use disorder (SUD) prior to incarceration.

Key components of the program include the distribution of naloxone kits to individuals upon release from the correctional setting. This critical component is linked to aiding in the prevention of opioid-related overdose and deaths in the community. Additionally, the Naloxone Vending Machine provided by Project Red, along with naloxone from the MDHHS, further enhances accessibility to this medication for all individuals leaving custody who may be at risk. The vending machine has dispensed 1,437 doses as of February 2024, supporting the impact and importance of such initiatives.

Overall, the MAT program in the Kent County Correctional Facility serves as a model for addressing substance use disorder within correctional settings, emphasizing collaboration, proactive identification, and comprehensive support for individuals on their journey to recovery. Due to the recognized need, it’s their intent to obtain future funding through Opioid Settlement Funds. The additional funding will allocate further resources and staffing for this program, which has seen substantial growth and success for those impacted.