Exploring the history of health care in U.S. prisons

Minimal Standards of Adequacy: A History of Health Care in US Prisons

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY · NIH-10765718

This study looks at the health care problems faced by people in U.S. prisons, focusing on their higher rates of chronic illnesses and infections, and it aims to show how past policies and attitudes have contributed to these issues, all in hopes of pushing for better health care for incarcerated individuals.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorFLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MIAMI, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10765718 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the historical context and current inadequacies of health care services provided to incarcerated individuals in U.S. prisons. It examines the health challenges faced by this population, including higher rates of chronic conditions and infectious diseases, and analyzes how these issues have been shaped by policies and societal perceptions over the past century. By reviewing literature, legal claims, and personal accounts, the research aims to highlight the systemic failures in prison health care and advocate for necessary reforms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been incarcerated or are currently in prison and have experienced health care services within the prison system.

Not a fit: Patients who have never been incarcerated or do not have any health care experiences related to the prison system may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health care policies and practices for incarcerated individuals, ultimately enhancing their health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies addressing health care in prisons, this research aims to provide a comprehensive historical analysis that has not been extensively explored before.

Where this research is happening

MIAMI, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Mental health disorders, Psychiatric Disease, Psychiatric Disorder, psychological disorder, Mental disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.