Louisville Launches Kentucky's First Jail-Based Opioid Treatment Program

The Louisville Metro Department of Corrections has launched Kentucky's first licensed jail-based opioid treatment program, aimed at addressing addiction among inmates. This innovative initiative allows inmates to receive all FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder, including methadone, and is designed to improve public safety by reducing drug-related charges. Currently, there are 75 inmates enrolled, with a total of 912 having completed the program in the last nine months of 2024. LMDC Chief Jerry Collins emphasized the program's goal to provide continuity of care, ultimately decreasing the number of individuals returning to jail for drug issues. Louisville has seen a significant drop in overdose deaths, moving from the fourth to the ninth highest in the nation. The program represents a long-term investment in recovery and community health.