Jail MAT Program Supports Safer Opioid Detox

Just over two months after its launch, the new medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program in Hamilton County, Tennessee, has already produced early success stories, with seven inmates graduating from the program in late February.

County Sheriff Austin Garrett announced the initiative in December 2025, which operates inside the Hamilton County Jail and Detention Center.

The inauguration rounded out nearly two years of collaborating with local leaders, the Economic and Community Development Office and the McNabb Center.

Hamilton County’s vision was to make MAT available to inmates with opioid and stimulant use disorders.

Officers had noted a sharp increase in the number of inmates already struggling with addictions when entering the correctional system, which made the adoption of a more proactive program even more necessary. 

Medication Assisted Treatment During Detox

MAT combines FDA-approved medications that help manage withdrawal symptoms during detox with behavioral therapies and counseling.

Medications such as methadone and buprenorphine help reduce cravings and ease severe withdrawal symptoms during detox and ongoing treatment, allowing patients to focus more fully on counseling and recovery.

Inmates also receive individual therapy, group counseling, access to further resources and ongoing peer support, thanks to the McNabb Center’s partnership.

County Mayor Weston Wamp noted that the availability of MAT in jails has already made a huge difference in other parts of Tennessee. 

How MAT Supports Detox and Recovery

MAT programs enjoy a reputation as powerful and reliable tools in reducing overdoses and supporting sustainable recovery, particularly amongst those facing opioid, stimulant and alcohol addictions.

When offered as a part of the correctional system’s rehabilitation efforts, these programs reduce parole violations and repeat offenses.

MAT has helped communities and is widely recognized as a life-saving program for many individuals who participate.

Without MAT, inmates have a higher chance of relapse, while states that fund opioid treatment reduce overdose deaths and enhance recovery. 

As for graduates Darian Garrett, Jacob Daniel, DeJuan Underwood, Peyton Adams, Tyler Coyne, Kenneth Rogers and Ricky Brown, they’re the first among many for whom Hamilton County’s program has opened up a new world of opportunities.

At his graduation, Darian Garrett expressed gratitude that this program could help him become a better person and father.

Receiving MAT Outside Incarceration

Medication assisted treatment is widely available in many treatment programs. You can find MAT centers in detox.com’s directory or call 800-996-6135(Sponsored) to get started.