This issue paper presents a framework for increasing the use of health information technology in correctional facilities.
This issue paper from the Community Oriented Correctional Health Services (COCHS) presents a framework for increasing the use of health information technology (HIT) in the Nation's correctional facilities. The COCHS is a non-profit organization that works to assist jurisdictions in establishing connectivity between jails and their communities. Since no two jails are ever exactly alike, COCHS developed a systematic framework that will allow jurisdictions to approach HIT connectivity within the jail environment. The paper identifies three macro level systems that must work together to ensure that inmates receive the proper health care. These three systems are jail management systems, jail health systems, and community health systems. The framework also contains three sets of guiding factors that should be considered by jurisdictions looking to create connectivity within their jail system. The first set of factors center on policy, the second set centers on resources, and the third set centers on champions for the jails connectivity efforts. By looking at these sets of guiding factors, an jurisdiction can determine the most beneficial and feasible course for them to pursue in their efforts to improve HIT connectivity in their correctional facilities. The paper highlights the experiences of five jurisdictions that have implemented different forms of HIT connectivity. These five jurisdictions are Orlando, FL; Portland, OR; New York City, NY; Springfield, MA; and Lexington, KY. Figures