University Health’s Detention Health Care Services commended for commitment to quality
University Health’s Detention Health Care Services team has again earned accreditation from the National Commission on Correctional Health Care by demonstrating compliance with the commission’s nationally recognized standards of care for correctional health services in jails. The official accreditation report issued this month recognizes University Health’s ongoing commitment to providing quality health services for the incarcerated population at all Bexar County correctional facilities.
Currently, more than 300 University Health physicians, nurses, tech, pharmacists, social workers, therapists, dentists and team members serve in Bexar County detention facilities. Many of these inmates have serious chronic health issues, and for some it’s the first time they’ve received any type of care in many years, if ever.
“This team is committed to the highest standards of professionalism and compassion in taking care of the detention population,” Vice President and Health Services Administrator Stephanie Stiefer said. “This accreditation reflects University Health’s commitment to providing care that meets or exceeds the nationally recognized standards for clinical, mental health, and dental services.”
To maintain NCCHC accreditation, Detention Health Care Services underwent a rigorous quality and compliance assessment. During the survey, a team of experienced physicians and experts in correctional health care surveyed the facility. The survey team highlighted inmates’ access to a wide range of services, and how the team is exceeding expectations in terms of quality care, mental health services and strong communication between the health care team and the Sheriff’s Office.
Of the 39 essential standards, 38 were applicable to this facility, and all 38 (100%) were found to be in full compliance. The categories where Detention Health met the high standard of full compliance include patient care and treatment, health promotion, safety and disease prevention, governance and administration, personnel and training, special needs and services, and medical-legal issues.
For 45 years, NCCHC’s highly respected standards have provided guidance to help correctional health professionals and administrators improve the health of their incarcerated populations and the communities to which they return, increase efficiency of health services delivery, strengthen organizational effectiveness, and reduce the risk of adverse legal judgments. The consensus-based standards are developed in consultation with national experts in correctional health care, mental health, law, and corrections.
"In continuing to achieve NCCHC accreditation, University Health Detention Care Services has demonstrated its commitment to quality, standards-based correctional health care,” said Deborah Ross, CCHP, NCCHC chief executive officer. “Accreditation is a voluntary process, and we commend University Health for successfully maintaining this distinction. The health of incarcerated people is a vitally important component of public health.”
