Utah DHHS welcomes the new Division of Correctional Health Services
Salt Lake City—The Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Utah Department of Corrections (UDC) announced the first phase of the official transition of incarcerated individuals’ medical services to DHHS.
The complete transition is scheduled for July 1, 2024, but as of now, DHHS is supervising incarcerated individuals’ health care, operating under a memorandum of understanding with UDC.
Recognizing the importance of addressing the unique health care needs of incarcerated individuals, the Utah Department of Corrections and the Utah Department of Health and Human Services have worked hand in hand over the past 6 months to ensure a seamless transition of health care services. Through shared expertise, resources, and a commitment to public health, this collaboration seeks to foster an environment where every individual under correctional supervision receives the highest standard of care.
Officially, the memorandum with UDC started on Thursday, June 8, 2023, with 200 former Corrections employees now under Health and Human Services, as the Division of Correctional Health Services (CHS).
“We have the same vision for our incarcerated population that we do for all Utahns, that they should have fair and equitable opportunities to live safe and healthy lives,” said Tracy Gruber, executive director of the Department of Health and Human Services. “Maintaining health and well-being for an incarcerated person is as important while they are in prison, as it is when they are released. We are grateful for support from the Legislature to enhance health care inside of our prisons and for the ongoing collaboration from our friends in the Department of Corrections as we work together in new and creative ways.”
“Through this collaborative effort, we are reshaping the future of health care for incarcerated individuals in Utah,” said Brian Redd, executive director of the Utah Department of Corrections. “By combining our correctional expertise with the health care services provided by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, we are forging a path towards holistic rehabilitation, supporting the well-being and dignity of those entrusted to our care.”
By providing reliable health care to inmates, we will also create a safer environment for those in prison settings, including inmates and staff.
To learn more visit dhhs.utah.gov/chs