Inmates given optical care

Dorset PCT has introduced regular clinics to give prisoners access to opticians, dentists and GPs and other healthcare services equivalent to those in the wider community.

The PCT took responsibility for healthcare service provisions for six prisons in 2004 and since then has embarked on introducing a series of changes in close collaboration with the Prison Service.

The programme is now being held up as a blueprint for good practice for other health bodies serving the prison population and the changes have received formal recognition and Home Office approval.

Carole Lawrence-Parr, the PCT's director of strategic development said the arrangements had met with approval from staff and service providers as improving healthcare for inmates.