NCJ Number
104823
Date Published
1986
Length
90 pages
Annotation
These standards for the qualitative and quantitative measurement of prison health care delivery systems, a revision of the July 1979 standards, are the basis for accrediting such systems and are intended to increase the efficiency of health care delivery; produce greater cost effectiveness; and provide better health protection for inmates, staff, and the community.
Abstract
There are 71 standards organized under the topics of administration, personnel, support services, care and treatment, medical records, and medical-legal issues. Thirty-one standards are identified as 'essential,' and 40 are classified as 'important.' All of the 'essential' standards and 85 percent of the 'important' standards must be met for accreditation. Each standard is followed by a discussion section which elaborates on the standard and, in some instances, identifies alternative approaches for compliance. Some 'essential' standards pertaining to administration include the responsible health authority, medical autonomy, meetings and reports, policies and procedures, internal quality assurance, and a disaster plan. 'Essential' personnel standards pertain to licensure; training for health care providers, correctional officers, and medication administration; and inmate workers. The standard for pharmaceuticals is 'essential' under support services. Standards for care and treatment cover regular services and special services. 'Essential' standards regarding medical records address the medical record format and records confidentiality. The standard for forced psychotropic medication is 'essential' under medical-legal issues. Appended sample instructions and forms, glossary, and subject index.