NCJ Number
130984
Date Published
Unknown
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This booklet explains the rationale, standards, and procedures for a correctional facility to become accredited in its delivery of inmate health care services.
Abstract
The booklet notes that health care accreditation improved the health status of inmates and detainees and increases the professional status of those providing such services. Health-care accreditation will also deter lawsuits. Currently, there are three sets of accreditation standards: those for prisons, those for jails, and those for juvenile confinement facilities. The majority of requirements in the standards are common to all three sets. The minimum standards for accreditation are in the areas of administration, personnel, care and treatment, pharmaceuticals, health records, and medical-legal issues. An accredited facility typically screens persons on admission to identify medical problems; maintains a program of periodic health appraisals; provides means for responding to medical emergencies; has an ongoing system for adequately handling the physical, mental, and dental problems of inmates; and does not use inmates in the medical care delivery process. An accredited facility also provides drugs and medications in a competent and timely manner, allows for exercise and good hygiene practices, maintains adequate medical records and documentation, provides liaison and communication with the facility's administration, and has a set of policies and procedures to guide its health care delivery system. This booklet explains how to become accredited and identifies funding sources for accreditation.