In correctional health care, one issue looms large: staffing. When we posed the question, “What is the greatest challenge you face each day in correctional health care?” during the NCCHC National Conference in Las Vegas, attendees from roles across the field consistently highlighted staffing as their top challenge.
Effective health care in correctional facilities relies heavily on dedicated professionals across multiple disciplines, yet shortages of trained staff—whether nurses, mental health professionals, or security personnel—remain an everyday obstacle. Staff shortages impact everything from timeliness to quality of care. These challenges add pressure to those already working in an environment marked by security protocols, budget constraints, and acute health needs.
These simple strategies can help:
• Use targeted recruitment strategies and engage with local community and educational institutions to raise awareness about career opportunities in corrections.
• Cultivate a safe and supportive culture that creatively allows for a work-life balance.
• Seek feedback from current employees and conduct exit interviews with those leaving the organization.
• Support personal growth by offering training and continuing education opportunities that go outside the bounds of mandated topics.
Staffing isn’t the only challenge; participants also noted issues such as communication gaps, the pervasive stigma surrounding correctional health, barriers to successful re-entry, and high treatment costs. Each of these elements plays a role in shaping the daily experience of providing health care in corrections.
NCCHC Resources offers creative solutions for agencies facing these challenges. For more information, reach out today.