Supportive Care Program to Help Adults Connect to Medical Care After Prison Release Using Phone Calls and Nurse Case Management

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a transitional care program designed to support adults recently released from prison who have a history of substance use and chronic medical or psychiatric conditions. The study aims to determine whether a short program involving phone communication can increase the number of non-emergency outpatient clinic visits within 60 days after release. This trial compares two approaches to help participants connect with medical care after incarceration. Participants are enrolled about six months before their expected release from prison. One group will receive weekly phone calls and texts from a study team member for up to 60 days after release. Another group will receive similar communications plus additional support from a nurse case manager who will also call and text participants. Before release, participants meet in person with either a study team member or nurse case manager. The study uses linked administrative data to provide context and policy insights. During the study, participants complete surveys and have multiple conversations with study staff, including 2-3 talks with a study team member and, for some, 6-11 additional contacts with a nurse case manager. Researchers will monitor attendance at non-emergency outpatient visits within two months after release, focusing on general and substance use disorder-related care. The total study duration is about five months from enrollment through follow-up.

Calls and Coordination for Transitions of Care at Re-entry