Training for change: shifting staff perceptions toward MOUD in community and justice settings

This study explores jail and community treatment provider staff perceptions of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and how these attitudes evolve over time, the role of training, and barriers to implementation in the criminal justice system. Surveys from 89 staff members at baseline and 24 months assessed MOUD perceptions. Analyses, including ANOVA, t-tests, and regression, evaluated differences across four treatment groups and the influence of site composition and individual characteristics. Staff viewed MOUDs positively at baseline, with Sublocade© rated highest for effectiveness and Vivitrol© for appropriateness. Perceptions did not significantly change over 24 months across treatment groups, except for marginal improvements in Sublocade© and declines in Vivitrol© in specific groups. Interagency collaborations between jails and community providers were linked to slightly more positive perceptions at baseline but did not significantly impact changes in perception over time. Training on specific MOUDs was the strongest predictor of baseline perceptions of MOUD and of improved perceptions of appropriateness of MOUD, highlighting the need for continued education to address knowledge gaps and stigma. Age and race showed marginal associations with changing perceptions. More robust training on the benefits and effectiveness of specific medications is needed to increase perceptions and utilization of MOUDs among staff.