NCJ Number
172475
Journal
American Jails Volume: 11 Issue: 6 Dated: (January/February 1998) Pages: 65-67
Date Published
1998
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The experience of the Sonoma County (Calif.) detention facilities with inmate health care provided by a private company since 1992 demonstrates how such privatization can improve the quality of care while reducing costs.
Abstract
Correctional Medical Services, Inc. (CMS) has partnered with the Sonoma County Sheriff's Department for more than 5 years to provide more health care personnel, more medical treatments and technologies, and increased management of expenses. The relationship with CMS has overcome the county's earlier negative experience with privatization of correctional health care services. The California Medical Association reaccredited the facilities, the program was able to attract and retain quality staff, and expenses were reduced. Enhancements to care have included the establishment of chronic care clinics and regular hours at the correctional facilities. The number of medical-related grievances and lawsuits filed by inmates has declined substantially. All these improvements explain why Sonoma County officials are again convinced that privatizing correctional health care can benefit both the county and the inmates. Photograph