|
The clients of correctional services have high incidence of health needs with a significant proportion experiencing the damage caused by high drug and alcohol use and smoking, poor nutrition, and the potential incidence of self harm and suicide. There is a high incidence of HIV and Hepatitis C infection amongst clients. In addition to the work of specialist health services in custodial centres, staff are required to maintain high levels of vigilance in infection control and medical emergency response.
Mental Health
The change in policies and services for people with mental health conditions and brain injury has resulted in a significant increase in the numbers of clients in the justice system who might in other times have been cared for by mental health services. As well as increases in those who have medically diagnosed conditions, there is an increase in those who have non-specific aberrant social behaviour. Psychological and psychiatric services are stretched in caring for these clients, especially in regional areas where health and community services are already limited. The care and management of these clients is demanding for staff, requiring complex case management skills and strategies.
Return to Clients of Correctional Services
|