Understanding Barriers to Community-Based Health Care After Jail Release

• In Event: Engaging Former Prisoners in Health Care to Improve Reentry

Abstract

Findings from a recent study of Medicaid enrollment among individuals in jail suggest that health coverage alone, without connection to care, is not sufficient to interrupt a cycle of relapse and recidivism. In Hartford, Connecticut, where low-income men have been eligible for Medicaid since 2010, roughly one-half of the incoming jail population had active coverage. While health coverage may help individuals access care in the community, other barriers may prevent them from engaging in the type of continuous physical or behavioral health treatment that would decrease criminal justice involvement. We present preliminary observations from a follow-on qualitative study to assess non-insurance barriers to care. The study interviews 30 to 50 men with chronic physical and behavioral health conditions and Medicaid coverage to learn about their health care experiences in the first three months after jail release. We report on these men’s typical sources of care in the community; difficulties accessing medical, pharmaceutical, and behavioral health treatment; and reasons for delaying care. Findings will inform reentry planning for individuals with health care needs to better link them to appropriate services in the community.

Authors

• Kamala Mallik-Kane, Urban Institute

• Ellen M. Paddock, Urban Institute

• Jesse Jannetta, Urban Institute