CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIOn

Some patients, due to possible concurrent legal concerns, may be admitted to a correctional institution. Admission to a correctional institution can lead to destabilization of the patient in terms of their health and substance use. Collaborative transfers in care are an important tool for maintaining stability of the patient’s mental and physical health.

It is recommended that, on admission, correctional institutions:

• Rapidly admit individuals with substance use disorders and complete a health assessment upon admission.
• Confirm last doses of Opiate Agonist Therapy (OAT) and Safer Supply, and avoid delays in OAT dosing after admission.

It is recommended that, on discharge, correctional institutions:

• Notify the patient’s addictions medicine provider, and include the following:
  • Date of discharge.
  • Last dose of OAT while in corrections.
  • Copy of outpatient prescription (if applicable)

Provide the patient with, at minimum, 1 week of prescription medication to bridge therapy.