Implementation of Rapid COVID-19 Testing in Criminal Justice Residential Re-entry Sites

Abstract

The goal of our project was to study the implementation of rapid BINAX COVID-19 testing at criminal justice re-entry sites, focusing on several framework-guided implementation outcomes. We implemented rapid COVID-19 testing at nine re-entry sites in four states (Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and New York) and collected test results to measure the 1) adoptability and 2) implementability of COVID-19 testing at re-entry sites. We also collected data on the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of the implementation of COVID-19 testing using an anonymous employee Qualtrics survey.Testing was available to symptomatic and exposed residents and employees. COVID-19 testing results were collected from October 2021 to March 2022. Guided by the Expert Recommendations in Implementing Change (ERIC) framework, we chose nine implementation strategies to address barriers during the implementation process. Eight testing sites used a total of 302 BINAX COVID-19 tests and reported a total of 26 positive cases. Across all testing sites, 47% of employees participated in the survey. Most survey participants agreed that the implementation of rapid COVID-19 testing at re-entry sites was acceptable, feasible and appropriate. COVID-19 testing at nine re-entry sites was possible through collaboration with CRJ leadership. Several cases of COVID-19 were identified, especially during the peak months of the pandemic. Funding and attention toward COVID-19 testing at re-entry sites should be provided to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in re-entry sites and their surrounding communities.