Alachua County Implements In-Jail Substance Use Treatment Program for Inmates
Alachua County has launched a new program to address opioid addiction and substance use among inmates by providing medical care and counseling directly within the jail. This initiative, a partnership between the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, Meridian Healthcare, and Wellpath, offers medication, counseling, and other medical support at no cost to the inmates or the community. Since its inception in February, 91 inmates have been screened, 51 enrolled, 31 received medical treatment, and 23 received peer support or counseling, according to the Alachua County Sheriff's Department. The program also includes a mobile clinic to expand reach to other areas, particularly those without established clinics. Meridian Healthcare staff visit the jail up to three times a week for in-person nursing assessments, followed by telehealth appointments with medical providers. The approval process for medication can take up to two weeks, after which a nurse delivers the prescribed treatment.
