Delivering Mental Health Care in The Prison Estate – Where Are We And Where Are We Going?

Synopsis

There are high rates of both physical and mental health issues within the prison population. Rates of mental illness and poor physical health are disproportionately higher amongst prisoners.  National policy, legislation and strategies relating to prison healthcare are based on the principle of equivalence, with those incarcerated requiring equal access to a range of health care interventions.

Prisons, by their very nature are often challenging environments to deliver safe and effective healthcare.  At times, prisoners require transfer to hospital.

This presentation will look at delivering clinically safe healthcare in the prison estate, barriers to safe delivery and how future delivery can be supported.  It will consider national guidance on the safe transfer of prisoners to hospital and how future policies can improve access to healthcare for prisoners.