Public Health Out Loud
Public Health Out Loud is a podcast that delves into the broader public health concerns and issues facing everyday Rhode Islanders. From discussions about safeguarding against future pandemics to actionable plans for families to help keep their loved ones safe from preventable diseases, Public Health Out Loud is a no nonsense resource for listeners who want to stick to the facts. Host Dr. Philip Chan promises to deliver accurate, light-hearted, and informative public health updates that matter to you. This podcast is brought to you by the Rhode Island Department of Health.
Public Health Out Loud
Delivering Healthcare in Correctional Settings
People who are incarcerated have a constitutional right to quality healthcare services. This week’s guest expert, Dr. Justin Berk, is responsible for ensuring every person who is incarcerated at Rhode Island’s correctional facilities has access to, and receives, quality healthcare.
Dr. Berk is medical director at the Rhode Island Department of Corrections and a faculty member at the Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University. He is a staunch advocate for increased access to medications, such as buprenorphine and methadone, for people who are incarcerated and living with opioid use disorder.
In this episode, Dr. Berk expands on how Rhode Island is a national leader when it comes to providing treatment and recovery support services for incarcerated individuals. How is support for opioid use disorder and recovery delivered in Rhode Island’s correctional settings? What health conditions are common in correctional settings and how are they addressed? How did COVID-19 impact healthcare delivery in these settings? Download this week’s episode to find out.