Nebraska Corrections Advised To Focus On Identifying High Risk Inmates & Structure Mental Health Treatment Model

A review of behavioral health services and procedures at the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) recommended that NDCS structure its mental health services model to focus on identifying and treating individuals with high risk mental health problems.  The current assessment approach does more than is necessary, but after the initial prisoner intake assessment and diagnosis there is no defined benefit for treatment, and no utilization review or utilization management mechanisms. Treatment is dependent on inmate request and the willingness of clinical professionals to provide treatment.

The findings were reported in the “Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, Mental Health System . . .