Health Care for the Incarcerated: A Plea to Save a Vulnerable Population

In the Constitution of the United States of America, the 8th amendment states, “Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.” Contrary to belief, each day, men, women, and children behind bars suffer from the lack of access to adequate medical and mental health care. Out of the incarcerated population, 40 percent of inmates suffer from a chronic health condition, and without proper access to healthcare while incarcerated, inmates and post-release inmates continue to suffer. Their medical needs are not met, prisons are often overcrowded, and those conditions allow contagious illnesses to spread faster. Without action being taken, this vulnerable population continues to see uncivil practices being ignored by legislatures. We should stop ignoring the discussion on the rights of the incarcerated and improve our health care system in correctional facilities. In this presentation, I will talk about the inadequate health care in jails and prisons, what contributes to this issue, why we should care about this ongoing issue, and what we can do to address the issue. 

Brenda Mata-Diaz, Nursing ‘22

Brenda is a first-generation Latina college student whose goal is to pave the way for her younger family members. Knowing the hardships her parents went through to immigrate to America, she wishes to make a positive impact in her family, community, and most importantly, make her parents proud. After obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, her next goal will be to obtain a Doctorate of Nursing Practice which will allow her to possess the highest level of nursing expertise to work in a correctional facility. Having known a family member who was imprisoned for ten years has inspired her to work in an environment that can feel oppressive and deliver healthcare equivalent to the services outside of the walls. Brenda is committed to work in a correctional facility which involves caring for the medical needs of detainees and inmates. Although she hasn’t had the opportunity to work in such a setting, it is the responsibility of every nursing student to be educated and inspire leaders within the profession that will transform healthcare for a just and humane world.