NCJ Number
126605
Journal
Exchange Volume: 13 Dated: (October 1990) Pages: 1-3
Date Published
1990
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The article discusses the experience of one community-based AIDS service organization (ASO) in providing effective services to inmates in a correctional facility in Pennsylvania.
Abstract
The biggest obstacle in figuring out how to provide useful case management and "buddy" service to incarcerated individuals for this particle ASO was their lack of knowledge about how the correctional system functions. However, through coalition-building and by using the expertise and creativity of various organizations, the needs of sero-positive inmates were assessed, strategies were developed to provide the needed services, and the strategies were implemented. The first step was to meet with other organizations interested in the issue of AIDS in prisons and to combine areas of expertise in planning a program to provide legal, emotional, and practical assistance to the inmates. The ASO now plays a key role in locating appropriate housing, helping parolees with AIDS apply for medical assistance and other benefits, and locating adequate medical care as quickly as possible upon release. The buddy system offers ongoing assistance to families, helping them prepare themselves for the parolee's eventual return home. AIDS prevention education and voluntary HIV-antibody testing and counseling are also services provided by this ASO coalition. The coalition is also working with the local government for support of its programs. 3 footnotes