NCJ Number
109085
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 50 Issue: 1 Dated: (February 1988) Pages: 42-45
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
In this interview, Robert Brutsche, director of medical services for the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) discusses acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and its implications for corrections.
Abstract
Prior to June 15, l987, BOP performed AIDS antibody testing only on the basis of clinical indications. Since then, an experimental screening program has been implemented in which all incoming inmates are tested. Results indicate seropositivity in only 3 percent. While screening was initially perceived to have negative effects on preventive education and on seropositive inmates, rapid advances in AIDS research and the improvements in patient prognosis and management make the results of such tests useful. Education of inmates and staff still provides the most effective means both of dealing with AIDS-related fear and reducing the risks of transmission of AIDS in correctional facilities. The practice of supplying inmates with condoms as a preventive measure is controversial because it appears to condone prohibited sexual activity among inmates. Decisions in this area depend on whether their potential as a preventive overrides the violation of institutional rules.