Improving Self-Efficacy Strategies of Health Maintenance in Post-Incarcerated Women: Implementing Healthcare Access and Education

Abstract

According to the World Health Organization, social determinants of health are, “the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age. These circumstances are shaped by the distribution of money, power and resources at global, national and local levels”. Social determinants of health in medically underserved and underrepresented population such as incarcerated women are discussed. According to evidence-based research, incarcerated individuals have commonalities stating, women incarcerated have displayed higher rates of poverty, lack of housing stability, are from a disadvantaged background and typically fall in the category of being Native Hawaiian, African American or Pacific Islander. In addition, literature shows that many of these women have reported a presence of violence and/or trauma exposure, with the abuser typically being a family member, family-friend, acquaintance or significant other. Furthermore, the lack of connectivity and access to health care providers increases their risk of morbidity and mortality. The objectives of this project were to build an awareness of health disparities, apply culturally sensitive lessons learned through direct demonstrations of self-care knowledge and improve healthcare within the justice system for better health outcomes.