© 2024 Connecticut Public

FCC Public Inspection Files:
WEDH · WEDN · WEDW · WEDY · WNPR
WPKT · WRLI-FM · WEDW-FM · Public Files Contact
ATSC 3.0 FAQ
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Health Care For Connecticut Prisoners About To Be Brought Back In House

Chion Wolf
/
WNPR
Scott Semple

The state Department of Correction is about to be directly responsible for providing health care for prison inmates in Connecticut, ending a long-time contract with UConn. 

Commissioner Scott Semple said he still can’t release full details of why the change is taking place, but it follows several incidents including one in which a pregnant inmate gave birth in her prison cell.

State auditors have requested to see a consultants’ report that gives details of care provided under the UConn contract. But Semple told Connecticut Public Radio’s Where We Livethat’s not possible because some of the cases in question are in litigation.

“I’m following the advice of counsel," he said. "I know that there’s a pending attorney general decision on this, and we’ll see where that goes.”

But Semple told the show the quality of care is only one factor - he also wants to make it cheaper.

“What you’re going to see is a much more leaner management organizational structure, and more emphasis on nursing staff and prescribers,” he said.

The change takes place July 1.

Harriet Jones is Managing Editor for Connecticut Public Radio, overseeing the coverage of daily stories from our busy newsroom.

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Related Content