COVID-19 Testing and Prevention in Correctional Settings

Background: This study worked with diverse correctional facilities across Minnesota, Rhode Island, Washington, and Florida to characterize the incidence of COVID-19 disease progression and related outcomes. The goal was to identify barriers and facilitators to develop strategies to improve testing in these underserved populations by increasing the reach, access, uptake, and impact of COVID-19 testing among incarcerated people and staff in prisons and jails.

Materials/Methods: At time of recruitment, participants were incarcerated at key facilities in Washington, Rhode Island, Minnesota, and Florida. Participating facilities provided de-identified data on incarcerated adults and correctional staff. Data sources included de-identified medical records, administrative data, and policy documents related to COVID-19. Incarcerated people and correctional staff were tested for active COVID-19 infection over a 6-month period. In addition, a series of focus groups were conducted at 6, 12, and 18 months at the sites among three groups (inmates, medical providers, and correctional leaders).

Outcome/Impact: The results of this study identified ethical concerns and potential solutions for testing and vaccine strategies, while also generating critical data on incidence, disease progression, outcomes, and the effectiveness of testing and contact tracing in correctional settings.