[Regional medico-psychologic centers]

The intervention of the psychiatrist in the prison world is a comparatively recent phenomenon, since it has been actually effective only since 1945 onwards, at least in France. It is not until 1959 that the Penal Regulations have provided for the setting up of Regional Medical and Psychological Centers (C.M.P.R.). Among the main duties of these centers, the following two are of paramount importance: -- The supervision and treatment of patients who, although they are free from mental disorders calling for institutionalization, show behavioral troubles which may create difficulties, or danger, if they are remanded in normal custody; -- Psychiatrist's advice and, if required (albeit not compulsorily), prescription of medicines. Psychiatrist's advice may be sought either at the request of the inmate (which is the most common procedure), or of the other medical staff of the prison, or required by the Judicial Authority or Administration. The major cause of concern currently challenging the C.M.P.R. is the always unsufficient, and sometimes underqualified, staff.