My job description has changed since I began my correctional career in 1994 as a Registered Nurse. My enthusiasm for the work I perform has been strengthened by my decision to proceed from labor to management. A correctional setting is an inter-dependent working community. Industry and vocational programming provide employment opportunities for inmates. Educational programs promote literacy.
Psychological services promote social stability and decrease recidivism.
Inmate idleness is further reduced through participation in recreational activities and volunteer programming. Family relationships are maintained, to varying degrees, via on-site visits, phone calls and letter writing. For confidentiality and security reasons, medical staff use extreme discretion and caution in fielding concerns generated by inmate family members. Every health care issue represented in the free community is represented in a correctional setting. In addition, modern medical technology, the diagnosis and treatment of new disease, managed care, and cost containment must all be realized within the parameters of strict security.