Oral

The epidemic of mass incarceration, with substantial attendant adverse public health consequences, has persisted in the United States for thirty five years. The APHA has attempted to address this public health crisis through research, education, resolutions, and the publication of three editions of standards for medical care in correction institutions based on public health pricinciples. This work has been done in concert with colleagues and organizations throughout the United States and internationally. Despite these efforts, the number of prisoners in jails, prisons, and immigration detention facilities has increased more than six hundred percent. This panel will review the epidemiology of mass incarceration and its public health consequences. Changes in public health, clinical care, environmental conditions, and mental health services for prisoners will be reviewed. Panelists will critically review strategies that have been employed over the past thirty five years including public health research and publication, accreditation, coalition work, human rights activities, and civil rights litigation. The panelists bring national and international experience in the epidemiology, clinical, mental health, and litigation/human rights strategies to this discussion. It is hoped that audience discussion will center on developing new APHA strategies to confront this continuing epidemic.

Session Objectives: Describe the epidemiology of incarceration in the United States over the past thirty five years. Identify the clinical and public health consequences of the rise in mass incarceration Assess the outcomes of different strategies for addressing and reversing mass incarceration with specific attention to the APHA's resolutions, educational programs, and publications.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)