Carceral Health Care

This review addresses the public health crisis posed by mass incarceration in the United States, examining the unique health needs of incarcerated populations. It outlines the physical and mental health effects of carceral conditions such as overcrowding, solitary confinement, and lack of access to quality care. The article explores the challenges of managing chronic diseases, substance use disorder, and mental health within prisons and jails. Emerging concerns include the needs of older adults, women, and transgender individuals in custody. The authors advocate for systemic reform, including Medicaid expansion, post-release care continuity, and greater transparency and oversight in carceral health systems.

This review addresses the public health crisis posed by mass incarceration in the United States, examining the unique health needs of incarcerated populations. It outlines the physical and mental health effects of carceral conditions such as overcrowding, solitary confinement, and lack of access to quality care. The article explores the challenges of managing chronic diseases, substance use disorder, and mental health within prisons and jails. Emerging concerns include the needs of older adults, women, and transgender individuals in custody. The authors advocate for systemic reform, including Medicaid expansion, post-release care continuity, and greater transparency and oversight in carceral health systems.