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Incarcerated women struggling to receive adequate medical care
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Incarcerated women have a disproportionately higher rate of mental health and substance abuse issues than the general population, and most reported negative experiences when attempting to access needed medical care, according to data presented at the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ Annual Clinical and Scientific Meeting.
In their conclusion, Rachna Vanjani, MD, of Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, in Martinez, California, and colleagues added, “The results highlight the fragmentation and lack of standardization in correctional health systems and the need for increased resources and programmatic change.”
To analyze the health care experiences of incarcerated women, the researchers interviewed 21 participants who had previously served time in a prison or jail. Data were analyzed by two researchers using a grounded theory approach. Interviews were stopped upon thematic saturation.
According to the researchers, the rate of mental health issues among jailed and imprisoned women is 90%. The rate of substance abuse issues is also 90%, while the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections is 66%. In addition, women are not routinely screened for any of these issues and find it difficult to obtain adequate treatment, the researchers said. In lieu of behavioral health treatment, many incarcerated women were placed in solitary confinement, they added.
Half of the participants had been pregnant when incarcerated and reported feeling their safety threatened. Other commonly reported experiences included delays in receiving care and medication, easy access to illegal drugs and lack of privacy during medical exams. Upon release, 81% reported being unemployed, 52% reported being homeless, and 24% were residing in public housing. – by Jason Laday
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
Reference:
Vanjani R, et al. Health care of incarcerated women: A qualitative study. Presented at: The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ Annual Clinical and Scientific Meeting; May 14-17, 2016; Washington, D.C.