Improving healthcare access for incarcerated individuals with substance use disorders

Health systems innovations for supporting transitions of care for incarcerated people living with substance use disorders

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11097268

This study is looking to help adults in prison who struggle with substance use get better access to healthcare when they leave, by comparing a special support program from nurses to regular care, so they can more easily see a doctor after they are released.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11097268 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing healthcare access for adults who are incarcerated and have substance use disorders. It aims to address the barriers these individuals face when transitioning from prison to community living, particularly in accessing routine outpatient care. The study will implement a randomized clinical trial comparing a nurse case management intervention to standard care, with the goal of increasing the likelihood of healthcare visits after release. By bridging the gap between pre-release and post-release care, the research seeks to improve health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are currently incarcerated and have a history of substance use disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are not incarcerated or do not have a history of substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve healthcare access and outcomes for formerly incarcerated individuals with substance use disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with similar interventions aimed at improving healthcare access for formerly incarcerated individuals, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.