(The Center Square) – Despite drastic shifts in grant funding, some state programs are still finding assistance through the federal government.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services announced a $4.1 million investment to support youth who have been involved in the justice system to access health and behavioral care.
The funds from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services will go toward creating a record system for youth returning home after serving time in detention facilities. The system will consolidate individuals’ medical, dental, and behavioral records to create a smoother transition to external providers.
“Youth in secure juvenile justice residential programs experience far higher rates of physical, mental, and behavioral health challenges than their peers, including chronic illnesses, infectious diseases, untreated dental problems, psychiatric disorders, and substance use. Many also face developmental disabilities, reproductive health risks, and the lasting effects of trauma, poverty, and poor access to care,” said DHS Secretary Val Arkoosh.
Access to care, officials hope, will help to reduce recidivism and poor health outcomes for young people who have been released. Continuation of care for both youth and adults has been a major talking point for criminal justice reformers in the state legislature where a bill extending Medicaid access to prisoners before an upcoming release has made its way to the Senate.
“Having an effective continuum of care provides young people involved in the juvenile justice system the support needed to stay on the right path by continuing their education or landing a job – ultimately leading to healthier lives,” said Arkoosh. “This change to ensure health care records follow them upon release bolsters our efforts to create smoother transitions, prevent treatment gaps, and promote healthier long-term outcomes.”
