Understanding opioid addiction treatment for prisoners transitioning to the community

DAT18-08 Geographic variation in Opioid Addiction Treatment (GATE) study: Multi-Level Factors Influencing MAT Use, Other Treatment, & Adverse Outcomes among Re-entering Rural and Urban Prisoners

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-10625330

This study looks at how people with opioid use disorders get treatment when they leave prison, especially focusing on medication that helps with addiction, and it aims to find out what helps or hinders them from starting and sticking with this treatment in both rural and urban areas.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10625330 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how individuals with opioid use disorders (OUDs) utilize treatment as they move from prison back into society, particularly focusing on the use of medications for addiction treatment (MAT). It aims to identify the factors that influence whether these individuals start MAT while incarcerated and continue treatment after their release. By comparing rural and urban populations, the study seeks to uncover barriers and facilitators to effective treatment, ultimately aiming to reduce relapse and overdose rates. The research employs a mixed methods approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with opioid use disorders who are currently incarcerated and preparing for re-entry into the community.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently incarcerated or those without opioid use disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for opioid addiction among formerly incarcerated individuals, enhancing their chances of recovery and reducing public health risks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing treatment access and utilization among incarcerated populations can lead to significant improvements in recovery outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, 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.