After being released from prison or jail, one of the most important steps you can take is making
sure you get the medical care you need.
Whether you’re dealing with chronic health conditions, mental health concerns, or just need a
checkup, accessing healthcare is essential to staying healthy and rebuilding your life.
Seeking medical care can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve been incarcerated for a long
time, but there are many resources and options available to help you get the care you need.
Here’s a guide on how to seek medical care after release and what steps you should take to stay
healthy.
The first thing you should do is figure out whether you have or are eligible for health insurance.
Having insurance makes it easier to see doctors, get prescriptions, and receive other medical
treatments without paying a lot of money out of pocket.
If you don’t have health insurance, you may be able to sign up for Medicaid, a government
program that provides free or low-cost healthcare to people with low incomes.
Many people leaving prison qualify for Medicaid, and you can usually apply online, over the
phone, or in person at a local social services office.
You may also be able to get health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Marketplace, depending on your income and other factors.
It’s important to sign up as soon as possible so you can start receiving care.
If you don’t have health insurance or are waiting for your application to be processed, don’t
worry—there are still options for getting affordable care.
Many communities have free or low-cost clinics that provide medical services to people without
insurance or those who can’t afford expensive care.
These clinics often offer basic healthcare services, such as checkups, vaccinations, and treatment
for minor illnesses or injuries.
Some clinics also provide dental care and mental health services.
To find a clinic near you, ask for recommendations from a reentry program, your parole officer,
or search online for community health centers.
Once you have health insurance or have found a clinic, it’s a good idea to schedule an
appointment with a primary care doctor.
A primary care doctor is someone you see for regular checkups and non-emergency medical
issues.
If you have any ongoing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or asthma, your
primary care doctor will help you manage these conditions and make sure you’re getting the
right treatments.
Your doctor can also give you advice on preventive care, like how to eat healthy, exercise, and
avoid health problems in the future.
If you were taking prescription medication while you were incarcerated, it’s important to
continue getting those medications after you’re released.
Your primary care doctor can help you refill any prescriptions you need or refer you to a
specialist if your condition requires more specialized care.
If you’re struggling to afford your medications, let your doctor know—there may be programs
that can help reduce the cost or provide medication for free.
Some community clinics also offer medication assistance programs for people who can’t afford
their prescriptions.
In addition to your physical health, it’s also important to take care of your mental health.
Being incarcerated and going through the reentry process can be stressful and emotionally
overwhelming.
If you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or having trouble adjusting to life after prison, it’s okay to
seek help.
Many reentry programs and community clinics offer mental health services, including counseling
and therapy, to help you manage your emotions and navigate the challenges of reentry.
If you feel comfortable, you can also talk to your primary care doctor about any mental health
concerns you have—they can refer you to a mental health professional or help you get the right
treatment.
One thing to keep in mind is that regular health screenings are important, especially if you
haven’t had access to consistent medical care in the past.
Screenings can help catch health problems early, even before you notice any symptoms.
For example, you might need to get screened for conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes,
cancer, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If you’re not sure what screenings you need, ask your primary care doctor—they can recommend
the right tests based on your age, medical history, and risk factors.
If you’re struggling to navigate the healthcare system, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Many reentry programs offer support to individuals who are newly released from prison or jail,
including assistance with finding healthcare and signing up for health insurance.
These programs often have case managers or counselors who can help you make appointments,
understand your health insurance options, and connect you with local healthcare providers.
They can also help you access other services you might need, such as housing, employment, and
transportation, which can make it easier to focus on your health.
If you have a parole or probation officer, they may also be able to connect you with healthcare
resources in your area.
Some states and communities have special programs that provide medical care specifically for
people who are on parole or probation.
These programs can help ensure that you’re getting the care you need, whether you’re managing
a chronic condition, recovering from addiction, or just trying to stay healthy.
Finally, remember that taking care of your health is a lifelong process.
Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, recovering from an illness, or just trying to
maintain good health, it’s important to stay on top of your healthcare needs.
This means scheduling regular checkups, taking your medications as prescribed, and reaching
out for help when you need it.
It might feel like a lot to manage at first, especially if you’re adjusting to life after prison, but
there are people and resources available to help you every step of the way.
In conclusion, seeking medical care after being released from prison is an important part of
building a healthy, successful future.
Start by signing up for health insurance or finding a community clinic, and make sure to see a
primary care doctor for regular checkups.
Keep track of any prescription medications you need, and don’t hesitate to ask for mental health
support if you need it.
By staying proactive about your health and taking advantage of available resources, you can stay
on the path to a healthier and more stable life.