All prisons provide health care services, which aim to meet the needs of prisoners. The aim of the service is to give prisoners access to the same quality and range of health care that is provided in the general community. A period of imprisonment also offers opportunities to improve the health of prisoners and to minimise the risk of returning people to the community in poorer health.
The following projects promote this philosophy:
Health in Prisons Program
A joint initiative between the Department and the Medical Council of Western Australia focussed on continuity of care for prisoners as they move from the prison health system to the community. It started with an educational upskilling program for metropolitan-based general practitioners, informing them of health services available to prisoners while in prison and typical medical conditions treated.
Accreditation of Prison Health Services
The Department has signed on with the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS) Evaluation and Quality improvement program. This program promotes safety and quality in health care and the Department is confident it will eventually lead to accreditation of its health service with the ACHS. The program consists of a four-year commitment to improving quality and promoting safe patient care and is recognised Australia wide.
Naltrexone Exit Program
Development of a Naltrexone exit program for prisoners run in conjunction with Next Step and following a completed trial program at Wooroloo, Casuarina and Bandyup prisons.
Guidelines for Addictive Substances
A pharmacological guideline for use by general practitioners when prescribing drugs of addiction. The guideline has been completed and is presently waiting on printing and then distribution.
