Relates to women's health in correctional facilities

• Democratic1
• Republican1

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Lea Webb says this is needed

New York State correctional facilities do not provide comprehensive healthcare to incarcerated women. Placement in a correctional facility should not mean that the incarcerated individual surrenders her right to proper and compassionate healthcare services. This bill would require the commissioner of corrections and community supervision to partner with the commissioner of health to establish a Women's Health Education Program. This program would ensure that prison medical staff are trained on the specific health needs of women through- out all stages of their lives, including knowledge of care related to obstetrics and gynecology.' Among other things, medical staff will learn how to provide respectful care to women who are victims of domestic violence or sexual violence. A survey by the Correctional Association of New York's "Women in Prison Project" of formerly incarcerated women found that many respondents classified their healthcare experiences in prison as traumatic or uncomfortable, especially if the respondents had been the victim of past sexual or domestic violence. Poor prison healthcare is especially detrimental to pregnant women and their unborn children. This bill would require that pregnant inmates receive counseling services, including information about their right to pregnancy termination services and their option to apply to the Chil- dren's Center Program at Bedford Hills Correctional Facility. Expectant mothers would also be guaranteed prenatal care, and provided with prena- tal vitamins, as well as a specialized diet tailored to the specific nutritional needs of pregnant women. Lastly, the bill would also mandate that incarcerated women have access to annual gynecological care. Women will be screened for breast and cervical cancer, sexually transmitted diseases and infections, bone disease, and other medical issues during these annual visits, which can quickly become dire if left untreated. By taking the aforementioned steps, we can better protect the health and well-being of incarcerated women and their children.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.