What Is Known About the Cost-Effectiveness of Health Services for Returning Prisoners?

Abstract

This literature review on the cost-effectiveness of health services for returning prisoners focuses on studies related to screening and treatment for five conditions disproportionately prevalent among returning prisoners: HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis, mental illness, and substance abuse. Research suggests that programs addressing all of these conditions are cost-effective. However, there are not enough well-designed studies that include returning prisoners or very similar populations to draw definite conclusions. More research is needed to assess the impacts of such on returning prisoners. Community coalitions are needed to generate financial support and negotiate the allocation of programs across governmental sectors for this population.

Gender Differences and Offender Reentry: A Review of the Literature

“…Evidence indicates that treatment of communicable illnesses during incarceration and postrelease decreases recidivism, reduces disease transmission, and reduces costs of future treatment or incarceration (Howell, Greifinger, & Sommers, 2004). These positive outcomes, however, are not realized due in part to a health care system that does not provide adequate services for all those in need (i.e., particularly in low-income areas) or provides insufficient treatment due to restrictive eligibility requirements based on agency funding mandates or mission.…”