When an inmate in prison requires medical treatment or needs to attend hospital appointments, arrangements are typically made to ensure their healthcare needs are met. The specific process may vary depending on the facilities within the prison as well as the geographic location of the prison. Here are some general considerations:
- Medical staff within the prison: Prisons usually have medical staff, including doctors and nurses, who provide primary healthcare services to inmates. In less urgent cases, the inmate may initially be seen by the prison’s medical staff to assess the need for a hospital appointment.
- Referral to external healthcare providers: If the medical condition requires specialised treatment or assessment, the prison medical staff may refer the inmate to external healthcare providers, such as hospitals or specialist clinics.
- Security and transportation arrangements: When an inmate needs to attend a hospital appointment, security measures are taken to ensure the safety of the inmate, staff, and the public. This may involve coordinating transportation under appropriate security protocols, such as using secure vehicles or accompanying the inmate with prison officers.
- Prioritisation and scheduling: The urgency and nature of the medical condition are considered when scheduling hospital appointments. Priority is given to cases requiring immediate attention or those with significant medical needs.
- Accompanied appointments: In most circumstances, an inmate will be accompanied by prison officers during hospital appointments to ensure security and maintain control. Except in the case of open condition prisoners hand cuffs as a minimum will be used.
- Communication with hospital staff: The prison medical staff may communicate relevant information about the inmate’s medical history, treatment plan, and any security considerations to the hospital staff. This helps facilitate coordinated and appropriate care.
The specific procedures and arrangements for attending hospital appointments while in prison can vary. In the case of most prisoners, held in closed conditions, the communication as to when and how hospital appointments will be attended will not be communicated to the prisoner or their family. Often the first an inmate knows about an appointment is when the escorting prison officers appear in front of him/her to take them to the appointment. In most cases they will not be permitted to call anyone to let them know they are going to the appointment.