Providing health care in prisons

Why this is important

People in prison fully depend on the government for access to health care. People in prison often have poorer health than the general population and are more likely to experience chronic and infectious disease, intellectual disability, substance use disorder and mental illness. 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are over-represented in the Victorian justice system. There is also a growing cohort of ageing prisoners in Victoria. The government's recent bail reforms are likely to increase the size of the prison population and add to pressure on health services.

If prisoners receive substandard care, there is a risk of worsening physical and mental health, missed opportunities for rehabilitation and even deaths in custody.

What we plan to examine

We plan to examine if prisoners receive timely and appropriate health care. 

Who we plan to examine

Department of Justice and Community Safety

Further information

Private and not-for-profit health care providers operating in prisons fall within our 'follow the dollar' powers, which allow us to audit private entities receiving government funding.