Pioneering the Path to Better Care: Alaska ASAM Members Invited to Shape the Future of Correctional and Reentry Standards

Dear Alaska Society of Addiction Medicine Members,

The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) is accepting applications for expert writing group members to develop and draft the Correctional Settings and Reentry Volume of the Fourth Edition of The ASAM Criteria. As fellow Alaskans committed to improving addiction care and outcomes in our state, we want to encourage our Chapter members to consider applying for this unique opportunity.

This next volume of The ASAM Criteria will propose comprehensive standards for managing substance use disorders in jail and prison settings, as well as guidelines for supporting effective reentry into the community. The writing groups will be responsible for:

• Developing the Foundation for Jail, Prison, and Reentry Treatment Standards
• Drafting Expert Narrative Content for the Textbook
• Ensuring Use of Rigorous Methodology and Evidence-Based Best Practices

If selected, you would attend weekly or biweekly virtual meetings and contribute up to 10 hours a month providing asynchronous feedback. Applications are due by May 9, 2025, and you will be informed of your application status by August 2025. If your application proceeds, you will also be asked to complete a conflict-of-interest disclosure form.

Benefits to Our Alaska Chapter Members

• Shape National Policy with an Alaskan Perspective: Ensure unique challenges—such as rural healthcare, cultural diversity, and logistical barriers—are represented.
• Professional Development & Recognition: Enhance your profile by contributing as an author or reviewer of The ASAM Criteria.
• Networking & Collaboration: Collaborate with experts nationwide, opening doors to new professional connections and resources.
• Community Impact: Reduce recidivism and improve outcomes for individuals transitioning from incarceration back into society.
• Continuing Education: Engage with the latest evidence-based research and best practices for substance use disorder treatment.

We believe that Alaskans’ insights can enrich this important initiative and help ensure our state’s unique circumstances are reflected in national standards. As you consider applying, remember the words of wisdom: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4).

By participating, you will serve our state’s most vulnerable populations and contribute to higher standards of care in corrections and reentry. For questions or additional information, please contact ASAMCriteria@asam.org.

Thank you for your dedication to improving addiction care for all, and may our efforts serve to uplift those in need.

Sincerely,
Alaska Society of Addiction Medicine Leadership
(Endorsed by Corey Waller, Editor in Chief for The ASAM Criteria)