TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) - The Florida Department of Corrections announced Friday several measures aimed at helping Florida inmates with mental health conditions.
Florida Department of Corrections Secretary Crews says that "The Department is responsible for the custody of between 15 and 20 percent of its inmates having a diagnosed mental condition requiring mental health treatment."
The announcement follows a comprehensive review of the Department's policies related to the care of inmates who have mental health conditions. The results of the review stated that the Department should take measures to improve care of inmates with these conditions.
A Mental Health Ombudsman will be appointed to enhance the Department efforts in the care and treatment of inmates. Correctional officers will go through Crisis Intervention Training, and staff in inpatient units will also go through a form of training.
The Department of Corrections hopes to have a Corrections Behavioral Health Certification made available in the near future that will certify officers when working with these inmates.
