Healthcare Provision in Prisons in France: HIV and Hepatitis Infections. Prévacar Survey, 2010

Introduction - The provision of healthcare in prisons regarding HIV and hepatitis infections was examined in the Prévacar survey, conducted in 2010 by the Directorate General for Health with scientific collaboration from the French Institute for Public Health Surveillance. Method - A questionnaire on healthcare services was sent to all outpatient consultation and care units (UCSA) in prisons in mainland France and the overseas departments. Results - Of 168 UCSA units, 146 responded to the questionnaire (86%). Nearly all facilities offer screening for the three viruses—HIV, HCV, and HBV—upon admission to detention, but only half offer the screening again in the event of an initial refusal. Anonymous and free screening is available in approximately one-third of facilities. Facilities housing more than 500 inmates are more likely to have a specialized infectious disease or hepatology clinic than those with smaller capacities. Active chronic hepatitis C is tested for in only half of serologically positive cases, and access to non-invasive fibrosis tests varies by facility. Access to the hepatitis B vaccine does not appear to pose any difficulties in UCSA facilities. Conclusion - The high participation of UCSA facilities in this survey allows us to identify the strengths and areas for improvement in HIV and hepatitis care provision within the prison system. (R.A.)

Author(s): Chemlal K, Bouscaillou J, Jauffret Roustide M, Semaille C, Barbier C, Michon C, Valantin MA, Cate L

Publishing year: 2012

Pages: 131-134

Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2012, n° 10-11, p. 131-134

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