Santa Fe County Jail enhances medication assisted treatment for inmates

The Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners held a special meeting on May 20, 2025, focusing on advancements in medical treatment and behavioral health services within the county's detention facility. The meeting highlighted the facility's comprehensive approach to managing substance use disorders and improving healthcare access for inmates.

A key discussion point was the facility's in-house medical capabilities, including a CLIA-compliant laboratory that allows for real-time diagnostic testing and treatment. This capability has significantly reduced the need for off-site medical appointments, streamlining care for inmates. The facility also provides dental services twice a week and has implemented various withdrawal management protocols tailored to different substances, including alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, and stimulants.

The presentation emphasized the importance of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs, particularly the use of buprenorphine and naloxone, marketed as Subsolve, which is designed for daily dosing. This approach is crucial given the high turnover of inmates, with many being released within 48 to 96 hours. The facility also offers SUBLOCADE, an extended-release buprenorphine treatment, which is vital for ongoing care and is covered by Medicaid.

Additionally, the facility collaborates with New Mexico treatment services to ensure continuity of care for inmates on methadone programs. The integration of electronic prescription systems, such as Surescripts, allows for seamless medication management, even for those released to rural areas with limited pharmacy access.

The meeting also addressed the facility's innovative approach to stimulant withdrawal management, a relatively rare service that has shown promising results in reducing withdrawal symptoms and associated mental health issues. The behavioral health manager, Mark Boschelli, noted the importance of combining medication with therapy to achieve the best outcomes for inmates.

In conclusion, the Santa Fe County detention facility is making significant strides in providing comprehensive healthcare and behavioral health services, aiming to improve outcomes for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. The board's commitment to these initiatives reflects a broader understanding of the need for effective treatment options within the correctional system.