Here's how you can smoothly shift from a hospital setting to working in a correctional facility.

Transitioning from a hospital setting to working in a correctional facility involves several considerations and adjustments. In a hospital setting, you're likely accustomed to treating patients with a wide range of medical and psychiatric conditions. In a correctional facility, the population may have a higher prevalence of certain mental health issues such as substance abuse disorders, personality disorders, and trauma-related conditions. Understanding the specific needs and challenges of this population is crucial in order to adapt effectively.

Whether an exit strategy or transition from office—or hospital-based patient care to the correctional setting, it can be equally frustrating and rewarding. Consider the facility's mission: Is it to deny or provide minimal care outright (similar to the HMOs of the 1980s), or will you have the backing of those who oversee the medical care population and care about outcomes? Will you be able to pick your team (hmmm)? Will you have a time limit per patient? Mental healthcare patients fall under many ICD-10 Codes. Does the medication formulary allow medical care that is within the standard of care for the surrounding community? You're applying for the job, but approach the interview by interviewing the employer. Frustrating & Rewarding.

Never been a nurse, but I worked with medical staff at the six prisons where I was employed. The question presented to me was, "how would I suggest in making a smooth transition from medical field into Corrections. In many respects, hospitals operate like prisons. You have shift changes, position assignments, policy, procedures, moral obligations and a commitment to performing your duties to the best of your abilities. Speaking for the Bureau of Prisons, a very smart man who became a Regional Director told me every evening he would bring home a Program Statement (Our rules to say) and spend one hour reading it, highlighting it but never expected to memorize it. Policy is Power and lastly, never expect a smooth transition, always bumpy.

Understanding and adhering to the specific policies and procedures of a correctional facility is essential for providing safe and effective care. This knowledge ensures that you can perform your duties within the framework of the facility's security protocols, thereby enhancing your ability to deliver quality healthcare in a challenging environment.

Il faudrait reformer en profondeur les établissements correctionnels. Ce système ne devrait plus exister mais ce n'est pas pour autant qu'il faille pas mettre en place une politique de sante

Establishing strong relationships with security staff and healthcare professionals is essential for effective inmate care and safety. Trust and open communication enhance understanding and collaboration, leading to a more cohesive and supportive work environment.