Post-release case management services and health-seeking behavior among HIV-infected ex-offenders

This study explores whether being met at the gate by a case manager is associated with more health-seeking behavior during the six months post-release among HIV-infected inmates transitioning from the facility to the community. Case managers documented whether clients were met at the gate upon release. Clients (N=226) underwent a structured interview at approximately six months post-release. One hundred and four clients were met at the gate upon release (46%). Results indicate that clients who were met at the gate were more likely to participate in drug or alcohol treatment (p< or =.01) and not engage in sex exchange during the subsequent six months (p< or =.05). Health-seeking behavior prior to incarceration, facility type, and state were controlled for. Being met at the gate was not significantly associated with reduced emergency room use or using street drugs. Findings offer support for the importance of establishing early post-release contact with a case manager among HIV-infected ex-offenders.