NCJ Number
186020
Journal
Corrections Compendium Volume: 25 Issue: 11 Dated: November 2000 Pages: 8-22
Editor(s)
Susan L. Clayton
Date Published
2000
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This survey highlights specialized inmate health care services in correctional facilities, based on information received from 43 U.S. correctional departments and 5 jurisdictions in Canada.
Abstract
Data were obtained on drug and alcohol testing and treatment, special accommodations for the elderly and the chronically or terminally ill, and whether early release laws were in place for these target groups. Information was also collected on various aspects of female inmate health care services, HIV/AIDS testing, infection rates and services, and hepatitis C. Results showed 10 correctional departments did not know the number of inmates being tested for drug dependence. Also, some correctional departments contracted out treatment services to private vendors. Most States had special health care provisions for elderly inmates, such as the use of main floors and lower banks, barrier-free cells, designated housing, infirmaries and extended care unit, handicap recreation, and extended and skilled nursing care. Many jurisdictions had laws in place for the early release of elderly inmates when warranted. Special provisions for the chronically or terminally ill were in place in all correctional departments. Health care costs per female inmate averaged $3,525 per year, and all correctional departments included medical provisions for obstetrics and gynecology. HIV/AIDS testing was conducted by 23 States at intake, with follow-up testing at 6 months by several States. HIV/AIDS testing was further conducted by inmate request in 36 States and by physician request in 34 States. Treatment for HIV/AIDS varied but primarily followed guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control. Testing for hepatitis C was conducted at intake in 3 correctional departments, by inmate request in 18 correctional departments, and by physician request in 32 correctional departments. Tracking of hepatitis C was undertaken by 23 States. Detailed findings on inmate health care are provided by State. 4 tables