Health care of prisoners and detainees

Abstract

Prisoners do not have the same freedom to move around and to decide their destiny as do free people. Their lives (food, lodging, sports, and work) are organized by the government. This has an impact on their health. Their health care is the responsibility of the government, who decides which healthcare system is applicable and which caretaker is available for them. In a situation of conflict or catastrophe, NGO or military medical personnel may become involved in the (decisions about) health care for prisoners. For instance, when there is an emergency (fire) in a prison and medical help from outside is needed or when an NGO is asked to treat (or to not treat), a person taken as hostage. It is important to know the different status of people in conflict and emergency situations as this status influences their "rights" under international treaties and their access to health and health care. To understand the specific problems of health (care) and prisoners, it is essential to understand the terminology, human rights, and specific problems. © Springer-Verlag London Limited 2009.