Just like anyone else, inmates have the right to live a healthy life. Just because you are in a correctional facility does not mean you forfeit the right to receive medical attention for urgent or dire healthcare needs.
If the staff at a correctional facility denies an inmate access to needed treatment, the consequences can be severe. Broken bones may go unmended. Minor injuries may worsen into severe ones. Pregnancy complications can spiral out of control. If an inmate with a viral or bacterial infection is denied care, the entire prison may suffer as a result.
Forcing inmates to suffer from severe injuries or diseases is wrong. In some cases, it may also be illegal.
Your Options
The Eighth Amendment to the Constitution outlines the rights of people who are accused or convicted of a crime. One of its most important functions protects prisoners from “cruel and unusual punishment.” Denying inmates access to the medical care they need can count as cruel and unusual punishment.
Unfortunately, this can be a very common problem. A study by the National Institute for Health found that 20.1% of state inmates with a persistent medical problem had not received any medical examination since being incarcerated. For inmates with serious conditions, this can be a matter of life or death.
An experienced attorney can help you determine whether you or a loved one were the victim of medical negligence in a correctional facility. If so, you may be entitled to financial compensation for the emotional and physical damages you suffered.
Contact O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble Today
At O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble, we believe that inmates deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. We will help you explore the best possible options for your case, possibly including financial compensation. If you or a loved one have suffered from negligent medical treatment in a correctional facility, we understand why you are seeking justice — and we can help you achieve it.
Contact the NJ medical malpractice attorneys of O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble today to discuss correctional facility medical treatment and potential negotiations. It is important to contact an attorney early to ensure the best possible outcome. Contact us online or call at (908) 928-9200 or 1-800-586-5817.