Matching Drug Treatment to Those in Need: An Analysis of Correctional Service Delivery in Illinois and Ohio

Abstract

An ever-increasing number of prisoners need substance abuse treatment, yet state and federal governments continue to cut funding for prison programs. Given this increased need coupled with reduced service availability, two crucial questions arise: (1) Are limited drug treatment resources being targeted to those with the greatest need? and, (2) Is the most being made of these scarce resources by providing continuity of care? Through an analysis of pre- and post-release data collected from 576 prisoners in Illinois and Ohio, this study examines the degree to which prisoners with self-reported drug problems receive in-prison substance abuse treatment services, and then receive post-release treatment. The study also identifies several individual-level predictors of successful treatment matching and continuity. Although the study finds some evidence of treatment matching, its extent is far less than desirable, and there is minimal continuity of treatment from prison to the community. Collectively, the results suggest that differences in offender motivation and readiness for treatment as well as deficiencies in correctional service delivery play a major role in the success of treatment matching. Suggestions are offered for improvements in correctional policy and practice and for future research on these topics.