Prescription Patterns in Jails Before and Since the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multisite Serial Cross-Sectional Investigation

About the study

This study represents a comprehensive analysis of prescription trends in correctional facilities, comparing data from before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key objectives

The primary objectives of our research were:

To analyze prescription trends in various jails across different regions.
To identify changes in prescription patterns that emerged during the pandemic.
To evaluate the impact of these changes on inmate health outcomes.
To provide insights that can inform future policies and practices in correctional health care.

Study overview

The research employs a multisite serial cross-sectional methodology to evaluate changes in prescription patterns across various jails. The primary objectives include:

Assessing pre-pandemic prescription trends.
Identifying shifts in these patterns during the pandemic.
Evaluating the implications of these changes on inmate health outcomes.

This investigation is particularly pertinent in light of the significant disruptions caused by the pandemic, which have impacted healthcare delivery systems globally, including within the correctional system.

Publication details

This article will contribute valuable insights into the evolving landscape of correctional healthcare, particularly in response to global health crises. We extend our gratitude to our research team and participating correctional facilities for their collaboration and support in this significant study.

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