DIRECTOR of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot on Friday reiterated that the provision of health care for prisoners is a state responsibility and as such, prisoners should enjoy the same standards of health care that are available in the community and should have access to necessary services free of charge without discrimination on the grounds of their status.

The statement was made by the director when he met with medical staff of the various prison locations on Friday morning at Prison Headquarters as part of the service’s strategic plan at providing holistic health care service for prisoners.

“Health personnel, particularly physicians, charged with the medical care of prisoners and detainees have a duty to provide them with the protection of their physical and mental health and treatment of disease of the same quality and standard as is afforded to those who are not imprisoned or detained”, Mr. Elliot noted.

According to the Prison Head, the vast majority of inmates will return to society within a few years, so proper health care is necessary to preserve their physical function, which makes it possible for ex-inmates reintegrating into society and to embark on productive activities and avoid becoming a burden to all.

Mr. Ellio underscored that the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) is currently undergoing a substantial transformation, which is beyond the construction of new correctional facilities, but comprises a fundamental shift in the approach to how inmates are managed and treated.

Additionally, he told the meeting that improvements in working conditions holds significant promise for staff members with the ongoing massive infrastructure development. (GPS)