State and policy efforts to improve justice-involved populations

Individuals leaving prison or jail have complex medical and social needs. The chronic and behavioral health needs of justice-involved individuals is also greater than the general population. Since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was passed, the majority of states have expanded Medicaid eligibility providing coverage to populations such as individuals leaving prison or jail. However, state health leaders realize there is more that can be done to help address the health needs of the justice-involved. This policy brief discusses some of the efforts and policy changes that can be enacted to reduce recidivism rates, lower correctional health care costs and help the justice-involved population manage their health.