Continuity of health care for prisoners on release in England is worsening

Continuity of health care when prisoners are released is “inadequate” and seems to be getting worse, concludes a report by the Care Quality Commission and HM Inspectorate of Prisons. The report, which is based on a sample of 21 primary care trusts (PCTs) that commission health care for prisons, says that continuity of health care around prisoners’ transfer and release is inadequate and getting worse. Alex Baylis, programme manager at the commission, said, “People in prison are often not registered with a doctor and have a high prevalence of chaotic lifestyles, which can involve, for example, substance misuse …