Bill > H2705

This bill aims to improve health education and healthcare services for women in Massachusetts correctional institutions by introducing two key provisions. First, the bill requires that upon admission and throughout their incarceration, women prisoners receive written information about women's health, contraception, and sexually transmitted infections through a user-friendly, culturally competent brochure created by the Department of Public Health. Second, for female prisoners of child-bearing age, the bill mandates that approximately four months before release, the medical director must offer comprehensive healthcare services, including contraception counseling, a gynecological exam, and the option to choose from various contraception methods. The medical director is also required to provide a 12-month prescription, pharmacy and physician referrals, and a MassHealth card upon release. Additionally, the bill requires correctional institutions to offer a monthly health education curriculum covering topics such as general health, nutrition, mental health, women's health concerns, domestic violence, substance abuse, sexually transmitted infections, contraception, pregnancy, and child development. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that participation in these services and exams is voluntary, ensuring prisoners' autonomy in healthcare decisions.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2705