Ombudsman warns of poor conditions and lack of healthcare in 11 prisons

The Ombudsman has raised alarms over the state of medical care in the country’s prisons after inspecting 11 penitentiary institutions. The report details staffing shortages, logistical gaps and delays that, according to the office, put inmates’ health at risk.

Among the figures highlighted in the report are one doctor for every 691 inmates and one nurse/technician for about 461 inmates. Inspectors also found an uneven allocation of personnel and delayed access to specialists.

The report notes shortcomings in transport and escort capacities, citing a shortage of vehicles and staff for prisoner escorts, as well as delays in diagnostic testing and the delivery of results.

Medication, confidentiality and continuity of care

Investigators documented irregular and risky practices around medication: in some facilities medicines are administered by prison officers, while in others procurement relies on inmates’ families. The Ombudsman warns this creates risks of interrupted treatment, dosing errors and breaches of medical confidentiality.

Mental-health care is also described as weak. The report records a lack of psychiatric and psychological support and calls for stronger prevention measures, including a systemic, multidisciplinary approach to suicide prevention.

Overcrowding was another major concern: in 7 of the 11 institutions the number of inmates exceeds capacity, increasing pressure on medical staff, hygiene standards, prevention programs and logistics. The Ombudsman urges a shift from formally available services toward measurable, timely and continuous healthcare in every prison across the country.

Photo: press material from the event