CT SB00448

Commissioner of Correction must develop a comprehensive health care plan by January 1, 2023, covering mental health, substance use disorder, and dental care services for all correctional institution inmates.

Plan requires mental health therapists at each facility to provide services to requesting inmates after assessment, with restrictions on psychotropic medication prescription unless specific conditions are met including medical history review and documented need.

All inmates must receive initial health assessment within 14 days of intake, annual physical examinations, dental screening within one year and annually thereafter, and HIV testing upon request and when clinically indicated.

Substance use disorder protocols include drug and alcohol counselor evaluation within five days of intake, immediate transfer for withdrawal patients to appropriate medical areas, and periodic evaluation by qualified medical professionals.

York Correctional Institution must provide pregnant inmates information about withdrawal dangers, medical treatment during second trimester, and neonatal abstinence syndrome effects, plus prenatal visits at frequency consistent with community standards.