Study shows training missing for health care workers treating incarcerated patients

Since 1975, the rate of incarceration in the United States has increased, with over 1.8 million people incarcerated in jails and prisons in 2020. Incarceration is associated with an increased incidence of chronic disease after incarceration, lower self-reported health, and an increased risk of premature death. In the US, people experiencing incarceration in the United States receive much of their health care outside of custodial settings. Thus, the training and experiences of noncustodial health care workers in working with this population are key in optimizing care.  

A new preliminary investigation surveyed health care workers within the UW Medicine system to assess their training and experiences related to caring for this patient population. Of 333 respondents, 94.1% had cared for patients experiencing incarceration but only 22.5% had received any formal training, with 94.6% somewhat or very interested in further training. Common challenges included lack of privacy, difficulty obtaining patient history or completing an examination, and patient distress. Health care workers working with this populations frequently experience challenges and report strong interest in further training to address knowledge gaps. This study discusses next steps in improving care for this patient population, including ongoing work to produce a training module for UW residents.  

The study, online now in the Journal of Correctional Health Care, was written by Heather Barnett, MD, PhD, Acting Assistant Professor; and Lindsay Booker, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor; along with colleagues in the UW Departments of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine.