NCJ Number
124376
Journal
Journal of the American Medical Association Volume: 263 Dated: (February 16, 1990) Pages: 987-991
Date Published
1990
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Youths who are detained or incarcerated in correctional facilities represent a medically underserved population that is at high risk for a variety of medical and emotional disorders.
Abstract
These youths have a substantial number of preexisting health problems. In addition, they develop acute problems that are associated with their arrest and with the environment of the correctional facility. The availability of medical services varies by the size of the institution. Correctional facilities generally use one of three models of health care delivery: 1) onsite, comprehensive care; 2) onsite, limited care; and 3) offsite care. Standards for medical services established by the American Medical Association in 1979 were later revised by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care. These standards call for regularly scheduled sick calls, an initial medical screening by qualified health professionals or health-trained staff, a complete health appraisal within the first 7 days of admission, a dental screening within the first 7 days, dental hygiene services within the first 14 days, and ongoing mental health services. Compliance with the standards is voluntary, and many facilities do not meet them. To correct these problems State and County medical societies should become involved in providing adolescent health care in these facilities and should work with corrections officials to discourage inappropriate practices. Table and 45 references.