Why Medical Parole Makes Sense

By Dotty Griffith Public Education Director We recently sent out an e-alert asking for your support of medical parole for ill and aging, non-violent inmates.  The e-alert generated a lot of support and a large number of recipients took action – for which we thank you!  We also received some thoughtful questions which we want to address.

• Indigent healthcare is at least as good as that provided in Texas prisons and likely better.  Plus, it is certainly more accessible.
• It is true that some formerly incarcerated persons needing long-term medical care would be dependent on Medicaid and other social services. Still those costs to Texas taxpayers are far less than the price of incarcerating an inmate in addition to providing  medical care behind bars. And, the federal government covers two-thirds of the costs for Medicare and Medicaid. The State of Texas pays the bulk of the medical bills for inmates under their jurisdiction.
• Many formerly incarcerated individuals have family members available to help care for them. Many have loved ones who wish to provide support and care during their last days so those who have lost their freedom and paid a dear price for their transgressions don’t have to face the ends of their lives alone in prison.  Some have families that are able and willing to help with the cost of medical care.
• For those who don’t have family or friends on the outside, there are advocates, such as Re-Entry Roundtable, and social service providers that provide former inmates with access to the resources they need upon release.

It is unconscionable to keep people in prison just for the sake of providing them with “health care.” The reality is that most health care services in prisons are extremely poor.  Medical parole for inmates who are aged, infirm, ill, and no longer a threat to their communities is the right and humane thing to do. And, a bonus is that it will save Texas taxpayers millions of dollars. If you do not already receive our e-alerts, please sign up here.