At Heritage, managing medical and pharmacy claims for the Department of Veteran Affairs and Department of Corrections has given us valuable insight into these two patient populations. We have taken that insight and created a solution based on the similar need for comprehensive Stress, Suicide, and Addiction Support to combat high rates of recidivism and overdoses for inmates.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that former prisoners are 129X more likely to die of an overdose within two weeks of their release than the public. According to Addiction Science & Clinical Practices, former inmates return to drug use due to poor social support, medical problems, and inadequate financial resources to support reintegration into the community, all of which lead to overdose deaths and re-incarceration.
Heritage CARES as a Re-entry Program is an online all-in-one solution that helps jails and prisons reduce substance abuse during incarceration and post-release to combat recidivism rates for correctional facilities. It is a comprehensive program that includes the most extensive video education library of its kind; our approach is unique and founded on clinical theory and proven methods such as motivational interviewing, harm reduction principles, and family system theories. Our peer coaches understand that the transition into society can be challenging and overwhelming for patients and their families. Hence, family coaching and support are crucial components of the Re-entry program. In addition, NAADAC credentialed, Assertive Community Engagement (ACE) coaches build accountability by keeping patients engaged in their care and learn their behavioral patterns, so they know how to re-engage and support patients when they veer off course.