Collaborative Healthcare in Incarcerated Settings

Abstract

A total of 2,162,400 adults were incarcerated in the United States in 2016. Sub-optimal health status, existing healthcare disparities, and fragmented healthcare delivery among incarcerated populations are concerning and warrant redress. This article highlights the need for and discusses the benefits of collaboration between healthcare professionals in incarcerated settings. The roles of primary care health professionals, pharmacists, and medical family therapists (MedFTs) in correctional facilities are outlined. Through integrated healthcare models, enhanced communication, improved continuity of care, and holistic treatment plans, existing gaps in healthcare delivery in correctional facilities can be filled. By working together and assuming nontraditional roles, medical professionals can help improve health outcomes of incarcerated individuals. Collaborative healthcare models in incarcerated settings can elevate public health in a cost-effective, yet positive manner.

Mental health, perceived consensus of coparenting, and physical health among incarcerated fathers and their nonincarcerated, romantic partners.

“…Finally, we advocate for systemic therapists to be involved within correctional institutions, broadly. Clinicians can also help incarcerated individuals and their families, especially coparents, navigate difficult conversations around their health problems (Rajaei & Jensen, 2020; Tadros et al, 2022). This suggests how important it is for incarcerated settings to incorporate personnel, such as clinicians who can help mediate coparenting relationships and improve their overall health.…”

Enacting caring presence in a conflicting environment: the case of state patients

“…This approach acknowledges the inter-connected nature of mental health issues with legal matters, social challenges, and economic factors in a person's life. Therefore, it emphasizes the importance of a team-based approach that includes mental health professionals, legal experts, social workers, and other relevant stakeholders to effectively address the complexity of such cases (Tadros et al, 2023).…”

“…Providing care for state patients requires a delicate balance between addressing their mental health needs and adhering to the legal requirements imposed upon them. It is crucial for healthcare providers to acknowledge that state patients often have a complicated history of mental illness and trauma, which may have contributed to their involvement in the criminal justice system (Tadros et al, 2023). In such conflicting environments, it becomes essential for healthcare providers to establish a compassionate and caring presence to facilitate the therapeutic process (Du Plessis and Beurskens, 2021).…”