Partners & Stakeholders
Wisconsin Model
A comprehensive approach to the design of an MAT program in a correctional setting is critical to the performance of the program and determination of the success. While too many partners involved in the planning process can quickly become an early barrier, having the right partners involved is critical.
Programs that serve correctional offenders/inmates can vary significantly from more traditional community-based programs. Following the core principles of effective programming, correctional programs should focus on the following:
- Risk of offender to commit new crimes (who to target).
- Emphasis on moderate to high risk offenders.
- Criminogenic needs of offenders to reduce risk levels (what to target).
- Antisocial companion, antisocial thoughts, addiction, etc.
- Responsivity items to allow for better engagement in programming (how to target).
- Transportation, mental health, gender, motivation, etc.
Within the context of developing a new program, it is critical to establish a mission, a vision, and objectives early on. By accomplishing this, the make-up of the team can be adjusted to optimize impact and success.
For MAT programs in a government setting, the following staff should be considered for involvement:
- Medical/nursing staff trained and competent in the substance use/addiction field
- Public policy
- Treatment and counseling specialists (emphasis in MAT)
- Data and research specialists
- Economic support specialists
- Law enforcement, jail ,and detention staff
- Corrections professionals
- Grant writers and financial specialists
Important to the process, the following staff could be involved as needed:
- Contract administration.
- Staff training and development.
- Drug company representatives.
- Contracted vendors after contract awards.
Team leadership should be established to:
- Arrange and facilitate meetings.
- Guide discussion and decision making.
- Keep team sponsors aware of progress, barriers, and outcomes.
Because of the attention the opioid epidemic has received well as the legislative policy making process, the Wisconsin model involved many of the staff identified earlier. Early on we met and invited partners and stakeholders to share their experience and guide our program formation. Many were eager to donate their time and talent as we quickly realized the size, scope, and complexity of our model.
We chose team members who believe:
- At the core, all people are capable of change.
- Addiction is a disease that is treatable and manageable.
- Overcoming addiction is a life-long process that requires time and attention.
- MAT is an evidence based and medically proven treatment method.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy is critical to long term change of behaviors.