The Newport News City Jail has again earned accreditation from the National Commission on Correctional Health Care, an independent organization that rates jails on the standard of health care provided to inmates in a correctional setting.
The facility received a 100 percent compliance rating following an on-site inspection by an NCCHC team in August, Sheriff Gabe Morgan announced today.
The medical personnel demonstrated they meet rigorous standards for safety, personnel and training, health care services and support, patient care and treatment, health promotion, special needs and services, health records and legal issues.
“This accreditation is a testament to the work being done every day by the nurses, mental health professionals and deputies,” said Sheriff Morgan. “They understand their obligation to provide inmates with appropriate and effective care.”
Applying for NCCHC accreditation is voluntary. Accreditation means inmates have access to a nationally-accredited health care program when they need medical care or medication.
NCCHC officials commended the facility staff for their professional conduct, assistance and candor during the review and congratulated the Sheriff’s Office for maintaining perfect compliance on the required essential and important standards.
“Taxpayers can be assured of our dedication to serve with excellence and efficiency now and into the future,” the sheriff added.
NCCHC has surveyed and accredited jails, prisons and juvenile detention and confinement facilities for more than 30 years. Its accreditation standards help correctional facilities improve the health of inmates and the communities to which they return, increase the efficiency of their health services delivery, strengthen organizational effectiveness and reduce the risk of adverse patient outcomes and legal judgments.
