Improving drug treatment outcomes for women in the criminal justice system

Opioid Use and Criminal Justice: Intervening to Improve the Outcomes of Women

Not applicable Interventional Penn State University · NCT06682364

This study is testing a new support program for women with opioid use disorder in the criminal justice system to see if it helps them stay in drug treatment and overcome challenges like housing and childcare.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorPenn State University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Harrisburg, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT06682364 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research aims to enhance the connection and retention of women in drug treatment programs within the criminal justice system, specifically targeting those with opioid use disorder. The intervention includes trauma-informed case management and support from Certified Peer Recovery Specialists, addressing barriers such as housing, transportation, and childcare. The program is tailored to the unique experiences of women, particularly those who have faced trauma, and will involve random selection for additional support services. The study is conducted in Pennsylvania, focusing on women recently involved with the criminal justice system.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 18 and older, residing in Pennsylvania, who have recently been involved in the criminal justice system and are seeking or currently in medication-assisted drug treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids illicitly or are not female will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for women struggling with opioid use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in implementing trauma-informed care and peer support in substance use treatment, indicating a promising approach for this population.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Female
2. 18+ years of age
3. Pennsylvania resident and intends to remain in or near Harrisburg, Carlisle, York or Lancaster areas for the duration of the study
4. Use opioids illicitly
5. Interested in starting drug treatment that uses medication to stop opioid use OR are currently in a drug treatment program for opioid use that uses medication but feel that without additional support they won't be able to continue with the program
6. Not currently pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding during the study period
7. Released from a jail or prison within the past 12 months or have other criminal justice involvement (arrests, probation, or parole) within the past 12 months.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Not female
2. Under 18 years of age
3. Not a Pennsylvania resident or no intention to remain in or near Harrisburg/Carlisle/York or Lancaster areas for the duration of the study
4. Do not use opioids illicitly
5. Not interested in MOUD to stop opioid use
6. No arrests, probation or parole, nor released from a jail or prison within the past 12 months
7. Pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding during the study period

Where this trial is running

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Opioid Use Disorderwomencriminal justicesubstance useopioid use disorder
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.