Volume 1, Issue 2 (2017)

Evidence-based Practice: unify research evidence with clinical expertise We welcome our readers to our second issue of the Journal for Evidence-based Practice in Correctional Health. Our focus for this issue is to bring new evidence, or to validate evidence for practice in our facilities and communities. We open with three reviews of literature written by faculty and students. I would remind our audience that there a varied types of literature reviews, and that this is an evolving field of knowledge synthesis leading to integration of best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values. The first, an interesting article, seeks evidence of the effect of boosters in treatment of individuals with co-occurring disorders (mental and addiction disorders). Are boosters effective, or just appealing to our sense of programming as clinicians? The second review of literature examines a practice that has been instituted in correctional health, the use of co-pays. This lead author sought evidence to support use of co-pays in prisons and jails. We are challenged to consider if use of co-pays in prisons control frivolous use of services, or act as a barrier to care? The third review of literature examines the very challenging behaviors of mentally ill offenders who self-harm. Is there evidence to support treatment strategies within the prison or jail setting? The final three articles offer a different perspective. The fourth and fifth article report components of a project seeking to identify perceptions of post incarcerated persons regarding their health and access to services, followed by a collaboration to disseminate information to released citizens living in the community. Our last article, examines an innovative communication strategy for correctional health staff. A brief supportive strategy is described for application in clinical settings. We thank all of our reviewers for helping to make this issue a reality. We are pleased to report that we are read by friends with similar interests in 34 countries around the world! We hope you enjoy this issue as well. Blessings, Deborah Shelton