Agency: Corrections

Line Item: Department Medical Services

Function

The Utah Department of Corrections' Division of Clinical Services provides medical care for incarcerated inmates in secure facilities that are owned, operated or contracted by the State. Inmates are treated by UDC doctors, nurses, dentists and aides, as well as through contracts with private health care providers such as the University of Utah Medical Center. Some of the more specialized medical treatment provided to inmates are conducted through telemedicine and telepsychiatry services.

UDC is required by federal law to provide medical, dental and mental health care to those incarcerated by the state. The Bureau of Clinical Services provides health care at the Draper prison. Medical services at other facilities are provided through contractual arrangements. Health care provided at the Gunnison facility is reflected in the Gunnison budget.

The Bureau provides mental health services and a comprehensive array of treatment alternatives to offenders who are mentally ill or suffering from emotional problems. Services include crisis intervention, acute care, residential, and outpatient services. The Bureau is accredited by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care.

Statutory Authority

This program activity is governed by:

• UCA 62A-15-605.5 addresses mental health services;
• UCA 64-13-26 authorizes the use of private providers for services that the Department cannot provide directly;
• UCA 64-13-36 authorizes the testing of prisoners for AIDS and HIV infections;
• UCA 64-13-39 requires the Corrections Clinical Services to be accredited by the National Commission for Correctional Health Care.

Intent Language

Under Section 63J-1-603 of the Utah Code, the Legislature intends that appropriations provided for Medical Services in Item 13 of Chapter 396 Laws of Utah 2009 not lapse at the close of fiscal year 2010.

Funding Detail