A systematic review of international literature focusing on the impact of integrated Health & Justice systems on health and care inequalities.

• In Event: PWG - Healthcare needs and the integration of public health into correctional systems

Abstract

Context: People experiencing health inequality are over-represented in the criminal justice system (CJS) which exacerbates health and care inequalities.

Objective: Currently, little is known about where the system potentially “breaks down” between secure carceral environments and post-release. Experiences of this part of the system will be explored. Increased integration of Health and Justice systems could provide a vital response to health and care inequalities.

Data sources: MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINHAL, ASSIA and Scopus were systematically searched for studies conducted 2013 onwards. Using a mixture of controlled search vocabulary (e.g. MeSH) and free text, search terms were derived using the SPIDER framework.

Study selection: We included all empirical studies which contained data relating to meta system links between criminal justice settings and the community which impacted on health in OECD countries.

Data extraction: Data extracted from each eligible study included information about the study design, study population, sample size, outcome measures and key findings.

Results: In total, 16,710 studies were initially identified and screened for inclusion. 46 studies were then identified for full data extraction. Preliminary findings indicate how the criminal justice system can impact on health. Themes highlight the need for integration of system level data sharing, cultural competency across settings, and the role of resettlement hubs to bridge the gap where social determinants of health can be addressed.

Authors

• Steph Scott, Newcastle University

• Joanne McGrath, Durham University

• Lisa Crowe, Newcastle University

• Naomi Griffin, Newcastle University

• Kat Jackson, Newcastle University

• Michelle Addison, Durham University