NCJ Number
132391
Journal
American Jails Volume: 4 Issue: 3 Dated: (September/October 1990) Pages: 55-58
Date Published
1990
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Alameda County (Calif.) has implemented a health care program for pregnant and addicted female inmates in response to an increase in female jail populations and the requirements of the Jones versus Dyer settlement.
Abstract
The program is administered through the Prison Health Services in conjunction with the Highland General County Hospital and its director of obstetrics and gynecology. A multidisciplinary team comprised of a perinatal coordinator, nurse practitioner, physician, and nursing staff was put together. Special care for female inmates begins at booking with a prescreen and general health appraisal. If the inmate is found to be both pregnant and opiate addicted, she is enrolled at the county hospital for an evaluation by a gynecologist and enrolled in the methadone detoxification program. Upon return to the jail, drug treatment and counseling are continued. Prenatal care and health services for the mother are provided by the charge nurse and the collaborating physician together with pregnancy and health counseling, social services, delivery at the county hospital, and postpartum care. Therapeutic abortions are performed upon request in accordance with applicable State laws. In addition to pregnancy related health services, a parenting skills program has been added to develop parenting skills and to discourage negative parent/child interactions.