Date of Graduation
Spring 5-23-2025
Document Type
Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Program
Family Nurse Practitioner
First Advisor
Dr. Norwood
Second Advisor
Dr. Chaudhary
Abstract
Abstract
Background The opioid crisis disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minority groups, particularly in correctional settings. In San Diego’s prison system, only 20% of incarcerated individuals with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) receive Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), highlighting significant care disparities.
Local Problem Limited access to MAT among minority inmates contributes to poorer health outcomes, higher overdose rates, and increased healthcare costs. Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving health equity within the prison system.
Methods A review of 10 studies emphasized the importance of culturally competent care in improving treatment engagement and outcomes among minority populations. To address disparities, the intervention will include culturally sensitive training for healthcare providers, monitored through MAT utilization rates, pre- and post-intervention surveys, and qualitative feedback to assess provider confidence and practice changes.
Proposed Interventions The intervention involves culturally competent training for healthcare providers to reduce treatment barriers and improve engagement with minority inmates. The aim is to increase MAT participation by 5% (from 20% to 25%) over six months while evaluating provider confidence and practice changes using pre-post surveys and feedback.
Outcome Measures The primary goal is a 5% increase in MAT utilization (317 to 396 inmates) within six months. Secondary measures include qualitative feedback on training and pre-post survey results assessing providers’ confidence in delivering culturally competent care. The Project Lead will track progress through regular audits of MAT utilization rates and provider surveys.
Keywords: Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), correctional healthcare, cultural competence, health disparities, minority populations, cost savings, San Diego prison system.
Recommended Citation
Seangmany, Douglas, "Enhancing Access to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Minority Inmates in the San Diego Prison System: A Quality Improvement through Culturally Competent Approach" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects. 367.
https://repository.usfca.edu/dnp/367
