Custodial healthcare and mental health in Australia
Research shows that one in four people in prison receive mental health medication – those individuals experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse and chronic illnesses. As a result, it is important for GPs to understand the benefits of providing high-quality primary mental health care for custodial patients.
The RACGP Specific Interests publication Custodial health in Australia: Tips for providing healthcare to people in prison provides practical tips for medical practitioners when providing healthcare in custodial settings. It also offers the opportunity for GPs to better understand the unique health needs of people in prison and details the various support networks within the community when individuals are released from prison.
To view the resource online, visit the RACGP website.