General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5567 seeks to improve healthcare services for incarcerated individuals in Connecticut by establishing the Office of the Correction Ombuds, which will oversee the delivery of health services, uphold the rights of inmates, and ensure accountability within correctional facilities. Key provisions include the Ombuds' ability to receive communications from incarcerated persons free of charge, conduct unrestricted site visits, and evaluate various health services, including medical, dental, and mental health care. The bill emphasizes the confidentiality of communications between the Ombuds and inmates, exempting them from the Freedom of Information Act, and mandates public reporting on complaints and recommendations for departmental action. Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for the Department of Correction, such as posting notices about inmates' rights to medical care and ensuring access to healthcare services regardless of an individual's ability to pay.

The legislation also includes significant amendments to existing laws, such as the establishment of a Correction Medical and Health Oversight Board to recommend improvements in healthcare services and develop a long-term plan for enhancing care in correctional facilities. It mandates the hiring of specialized staff, including a Correction Patient Advocate and a Correction Mental Health Care Clinician, and requires the integration of health records into an electronic system. The bill prohibits the use of nutraloaf as a disciplinary measure, ensures nutritious meals for inmates, and introduces a student loan reimbursement program for nurses working in correctional settings. Overall, Raised Bill No. 5567 aims to create a comprehensive framework for healthcare delivery in correctional institutions, enhancing the rights and well-being of incarcerated individuals while improving oversight and accountability within the system.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 18-81ll, 54-91a, 18-96a, 18-81, 18-100j