Prevalence of Medical Conditions of Female Inmates Within a Community Corrections Population

Abstract

By addressing key healthcare needs of female inmates while incarcerated, inmates are afforded a better chance of good health and related behaviors at parole. A thorough medical history was obtained from 37 volunteer female inmates at the WCCC in Hillsboro, Oregon, to assess current healthcare needs and identify potential areas for intervention during incarceration. Health needs emerging from the study included pain, breast and cervical cancer screening, sleep disturbance, and Hepatitis B immunization. Recommendations are given for incorporation of thorough health histories, medical exams, and immunizations at entry into corrections, with the inclusion of vision and dental exams as indicated. Corrections facilities are encouraged to work with medical education institutions to find mutually beneficial means of providing for the healthcare needs of female inmates prior to parole.