Health needs of incarcerated youth

From a health care point-of-view, the most needy adolescents in the United States are those who become incarcerated in the juvenile justice system. These youngsters have poor health care before incarceration is not much better. Their health problems range from the results of trauma to the consequences of sexual activity to severe psychological problems. Their health needs include: (1) prevention of health problems which contribute to behaviors for which youths are incarcerated; (2) comprehensive assessment and care; (3) continuity of care after discharge from the institutions; (4) comprehensive health education and health promotion; (5) professional, competent health care providers; (6) educated, sympathetic administrators and supervisory personnel; and (7) adequate financing of health services. Concerned health providers must become advocates for these adolescents and for their health care in correctional and political settings.