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The Department of Corrective Services looks after offenders in the Western Australia's (WA) 14 prisons and two detention centres as well as people on probation, parole and other community orders. The Department's facilities are spread throughout WA. In addition to services of community support, counselling, education and vocational training, employment, programs, supervision and reporting, the Department is responsible for the health services provided to offenders.
Offenders entering the prison system receive a health screening check that looks for chronic diseases (such as diabetes) and communicable diseases (such as hepatitis C). Health care is provided to all prisoners in WA by a team of doctors, nurses, mental health, addiction specialists, and visiting health specialists including psychiatrists, dentists and allied health specialists.
Education and health awareness programs are also available to prisoners to encourage them to improve their health skills and live healthier lives when they are released. While in custody, prisoners receive the same level of health care the general public would receive under the public health system.
Department of Corrective Services abstract
Department of Corrective Services
Level 9, 141 St Georges Terrace
Perth WA 6000
Ph: (08) 9264 1711
Fax: (08) 9264 1748
The Department of Corrective Services' action plan outlines strategies to reduce offenders' drug use, improve their health and wellbeing, and reduce the burden of disease and disability on the community as a whole. It also details the Department's aim to strengthen collaborative partnerships with other government and non-government agencies and community organisations.
Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract
The Department of Corrective Services' Offender drug and alcohol strategy 2010 - 2014 has been developed to address the specific needs of offenders in custody and under community supervision by providing a platform to address the harm caused from licit and illicit drug use. The strategy will ensure a range of measures are delivered to reduce offender drug use and prevent the associated harm. The strategy has a strong law enforcement approach, in addition to a holistic rehabilitative approach, to foster behaviour change that encourages law abiding lifestyles by reducing re-offending.
Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract
