Williamsport Prison expands treatment program to include methadone for inmates

The Lycoming County Prison Board convened on April 11, 2025, to discuss various updates and initiatives aimed at improving inmate programs and mental health services. The meeting highlighted several key developments and ongoing efforts within the prison system.

The session began with a review of programming statistics and mental health initiatives. A notable highlight was the mock crash video produced by Williamsport Area High School, which has been a collaborative effort involving multiple county departments, including the Sheriff’s office and the coroner's office. This program, which has been running for about a decade, aims to educate students about the consequences of reckless driving, particularly around prom season. The video, known for its professional quality, is available on YouTube and is presented to students to raise awareness.

In addition to educational programs, the board discussed recent meetings and training sessions attended by prison staff. On March 17, Deputy Warden Ebner and other officials participated in a pretrial subcommittee meeting, and on March 20, staff underwent mental health first aid training, marking a significant step in enhancing mental health support within the facility.

Financial updates were also presented, revealing that the prison's participation in the PIMIC program resulted in healthcare savings of over $126,000 for inpatient services from October 2024 to February 2025. This financial efficiency is crucial for managing the prison's budget and ensuring adequate care for inmates.

A significant new initiative announced during the meeting was the expansion of the medicated-assisted treatment program to include methadone, in collaboration with the West Branch Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission and Williamsport Family Medical. This program, funded through opioid settlement funds, aims to provide comprehensive support for inmates struggling with addiction. The warden noted that while this approach is not yet widespread across the state, many counties are moving towards similar programs.

The meeting concluded without any old business or additional comments from the board, but the discussions underscored the prison's commitment to enhancing inmate care and rehabilitation through innovative programs and partnerships. The board plans to continue monitoring these initiatives and their impacts on the community and inmate population.