NCJ Number
167695
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 58 Issue: 6 Dated: (October 1996) Pages: 102-104
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes Wisconsin's program of health education for employees of State and Federal agencies.
Abstract
Federal and State agencies throughout the country have implemented mandatory exposure plans for blood-borne pathogens and tuberculosis, including yearly education updates for staff members. Wisconsin's Department of Corrections hired a full-time public health educator to design a program to meet the needs of its nearly 6,000 employees. Educators work with public health agencies, AIDS service organizations, community-based groups, medical personnel and other correctional agencies to prepare the training program. The educational programs focus on the hepatitis B virus, human immunodeficiency virus and tuberculosis. By educating staff to recognize conditions that allow the spread of these diseases, headway is made in eliminating or controlling them. Program directors have developed a comprehensive curriculum guide, lesson plans and a resource list. Evaluations indicate that the program has met its goals of getting people to know the facts, protect themselves and recognize risks.