This session includes two presentations.

First, Do No Harm: Applying a Harm Reduction Public Health Lens to Corrections

The Maine Model of Corrections is a transformative model of correctional care established by the Maine Department of Corrections to promote self-actualization and reduce stigma for incarcerated individuals. This session demonstrates two aspects of the Maine Model: Expanding access to medications for opioid use disorders and adopting harm reduction philosophies and practices to promote health within correctional facilities and community correction settings.

Educational Objectives

• Identify evidence-based approaches to health care and community integration
• Discuss the benefits of reducing stigma associated with incarceration, mental illness, and substance use disorders
• Review elements of training that promote staff buy-in for integrating harm reduction programs

Level: Basic

Expanding Access to Substance Use Treatment and Integrating Harm Reduction Philosophies*

The overdose crisis and associated rise in drug poisonings among incarcerated people make jails a promising site for public health interventions using a harm reduction lens. This presentation will highlight opportunities to implement interventions to advance public health and health equity in carceral settings. Participants will learn about initiatives including the successful program at Louisville Metro Department of Corrections that provides naloxone inside dorms to empower incarcerated people to save the lives of their peers.

Educational Objectives

• Describe relevance of harm reduction principles to carceral settings and identify areas for partnerships with public health.
• Review case study of Louisville, Kentucky?s successful partnership between the local jail and public health department.
• Discuss best practices and strategies that attendees can use to implement harm reduction interventions in carceral settings.

Level: Basic