NCJ Number
188724
Journal
Corrections Technology & Management Volume: 5 Issue: 2 Dated: March/April 2001 Pages: 12-14,16
Date Published
2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the use of a mobile hospital that brings health care services to correctional facilities.
Abstract
U.S. Medical Group, Inc., in Orlando, FL, designed a fully equipped mobile surgical facility that has not only proved to be a safe location for surgery for Florida's inmates, but its fees are 50-75 percent less than at hospitals; it has already saved the State more than $10 million. Other States are following Florida's lead. Late in 1999, U.S. Medical Group opened a second mobile surgical facility at the North Carolina Central Prison at Raleigh, and the company is in discussions with correctional officials in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Alabama. Traditionally, Florida inmates who needed surgery were transported by van to the hospital closest to the prison facility, accompanied by at least two officers. With maximum security inmates, a chase car was also required to trail the van. Since the use of the mobile unit was begun on April 27, 1997, a total of 3,192 procedures have been performed, with only a minor incident. To perform operations, a pool of 14 surgeons and 14 anesthesiologists, who are paid by the State, are brought in from the medical community. The company provides five employees: one registered nurse and four patient care technicians. Surgery is performed 5 days a week and includes general procedures such as hernia repair; gastrointestinal endoscopy; hemorrhoidectomy; ear, nose, and throat procedures; urology surgery; podiatry surgery; pain management; and knee and shoulder arthroscopy. The unit does not perform major procedures such as open-heart and neurological surgery.