When should a health screening be completed on a new inmate?

A health screening should be completed during the intake or booking process for a new inmate to ensure prompt identification of any medical issues and to facilitate appropriate healthcare arrangements. This initial assessment is critical for several reasons. Firstly, it allows medical staff to classify the inmate's health needs and determine any immediate medical attention necessary, including mental health evaluations, managing chronic conditions, or addressing infectious diseases that could affect both the inmate and the general population of the facility.

Completing the health screening at this early stage aids in adhering to legal and ethical standards of care, ensuring that inmates receive necessary medical support from the moment they enter the facility. Prompt screenings also help to prevent potential health crises while in custody and support the overall safety of the facility. Therefore, conducting a health screening during intake is an essential part of the correctional process.