Comprehensive Health Care for Reentry Populations in Chicago's Underserved Communities

The Edward Byrne Memorial Discretionary Grants Program (Byrne Discretionary Program) helps local communities improve the capacity of local justice systems and provides for national support efforts. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 08 Congressional Budget. Funds should be used for purposes recommended by Congress.

The Access Community Health Network will provide comprehensive preventive services and primary healthcare for nonviolent offenders returning to Chicago's underserved Westside communities. Access will respond to an identified need in this population by assigning patients a primary care physician who will identify risk factors and behavioral health issues and will provide routine physicals, lab work, treatment, and screenings for chronic and infectious disease. A primary goal of the project is to aid uninsured and underinsured post-release clients, one of the barriers to successful reentry. This project helps address systemic fragmentation that prevents ex-offenders from receiving the support and tools needed to overcome the multiple barriers to reintegrating into society.

Progress will be measured through patient chart audits and case management surveys. Additionally, Access will use funding to enhance the capacity of the current service delivery system and offer trauma services with referral linkages to the Cook County Sheriff's Office and local community organizations.

NCA/NCF