A cluster randomized trial of an organizational linkage intervention for offenders with substance use disorders: study protocol.

Background: Substance use disorders are highly prevalent in community correctional populations, yet these settings frequently are ill-equipped to identify and refer offenders to community-based treatment services. In particular, community corrections staff are often opposed to the use of medication in addiction treatment because of inadequate knowledge, resources, and organizational structures to facilitate client linkages to evidence-based services.

Methods/design: Each of the NIDA-funded Research Centers recruited 2 criminal justice agencies to participate in the study.