Implementing a Health Education Program for Individuals in a Local Correctional Setting

Background:  Lake County, IL has a high prevalence of uninsured/underinsured individuals coupled with a steady increase in rates of all STDs including HIV and HCV above national levels. There is direct correlation of STD rates to the County’s location to the City of Chicago. The local correctional facility holds about 1,100 inmates and is ideal for targeting these high-risk populations.  Educational topics focusing on sexual/reproductive health and related issues implemented in a correctional setting provides beneficial outcomes to inmates.  Sessions are presented by qualified health department staff and specialists from community  partner agencies.

Objectives:  Implement Health Education in a correctional setting providing inmates with resources for re-entry into the community.

Methods:  Sessions are presented weekly to inmates at the jail on health topics that include: HIV/AIDS, STDs, Hepatitis, Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence, Substance Abuse, Smoking Cessation, Reproductive Health, and Healthy Relationships. Rapid HIV testing is also offered by an HIV counselor.  A pre-test is administered before the presentation. Presentations are intended to engage inmates in conversations. After the presentation, a post-test is conducted to assess knowledge/behavior change.  Certificates are provided to participants. Participation in these programs demonstrates a positive attitude and willingness to change behaviors. 

Results:  Participants have shown an increase in STD/HIV knowledge/healthy behaviors, an interest in community services and are taking initiative to access services after re-entry into the community.

Conclusions: Educational sessions implemented in a correctional facility increase awareness, and help identify behaviors putting inmates at risk for STDs and HCV. This enables them to make better choices and change their lifestyles because they feel empowered by knowledge/support from multiple community providers.

Implications for Programs, Policy, and/or Research: Health departments can partner with correctional facilities to inform/educate inmates. Upon release, these individuals have been shown to make healthier/safer sexual choices and an increase in knowledge of local resources which hopefully will be sustained after re-entry into the community.