Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office Implements Medication Assisted Treatment
(Rockford) – In late 2023, the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office implemented the use of medication-assisted treatment through a partnership with Freedom Behavioral Health, Inc. (FBH) and Advanced Correctional Healthcare, Inc. (ACH).
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is considered the gold standard for addiction treatment. In the initial stages, MAT can help patients become comfortable with entering recovery and making positive changes in their lives. Psychoeducation and therapy form the foundation of MAT, and medications are used to assist with detox and managing cravings. These medications can help bridge the gap between active addiction and a life of recovery. Patients can begin psychotherapy, start medication, and then transition to residential treatment or community-based therapy, depending on their treatment plan. Individuals struggling with addiction who engage in a program of recovery and medications in the community often spend less time in jail.
“Freedom Behavioral Health and Advanced Correctional Healthcare are at the cutting edge of providing services for medication-assisted treatments,” says Dr. Melissa Caldwell, President of Behavioral Health Services. “They understand that psychotherapy is the foundation of treatment for substance use disorders and work in collaboration with community entities to ensure that treatment that is established in jails can continue in the community so that the patient has the best opportunity to build a new life free from addiction beyond the jail walls.”
About Freedom Behavioral Health, Inc. (FBH)
Freedom Behavioral Health, Inc. takes pride in setting the standard for high-quality behavioral health care for the individual and facility and the professionals who work with acute populations. Clinical services are available in the areas of correctional behavioral health, discharge planning/diversion, recidivism reduction, PREA victim advocacy, and comprehensive addiction recovery. Expert Services include forensic evaluation, expert witness testimony, suicide-preventative architectural consultation, and accreditation and standards compliance auditing. FBH as an industry leader provides fit for duty evaluations, occupational healthcare, and professional training. Learn more at freedom-bh.com.
About Advanced Correctional Healthcare, Inc.
Advanced Correctional Healthcare, Inc. (ACH) is the nation’s largest jail contract management company, managing contracts for health care teams and customized programs in a variety of correctional settings, including county jails, juvenile detention centers, mental health units, work release centers, and drug rehabilitation centers across 19 states. In 2023, ACH saved over $23 million in taxpayer dollars through bill scrubbing, and 108% of contracted nursing hours were met nationwide. In 2024, more than 24 patient lives were saved. Learn more at advancedch.com.