CLARK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
AGENDA ITEM
Petitioner:
Jessica L. Colvin, Chief Financial Officer
Recommendation:
title
Approve the allocation of $1,750,000 of opioid settlement funds for a voluntary Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) program for Clark County Detention Center inmates. (For possible action)
body
FISCAL IMPACT:
Fund #:
2780.000
Fund Name:
N/A
Fund Center:
1020211000
Funded PGM/Grant:
Amount:
$1,750,000
Description:
Medication Assisted Treatment Program
Additional Comments:
BACKGROUND:
An estimated two-thirds of people currently incarcerated in the U.S. have a substance use disorder. Many of which struggle with opioid addiction. Opioids include prescription pain relievers, heroin, and powerful synthetic versions such as fentanyl that are driving record numbers of overdose deaths. Medications used to treat opioid use disorder can reduce cravings and symptoms of withdrawal. Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, which is effective in the treatment of opioid use disorders and can help some people to sustain recovery. Clark County has engaged in a pilot program to provide MAT to inmates while in County custody as well as offer continued treatment upon release.