Adult Probation's Healthcare Initiative Expands Probationer Opportunities

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2015

The Adult Probation Department recognized the opportunity the Affordable Health Care and Portability Act and Medicaid Expansion in Arizona offered to the underserved population of Maricopa County citizens under community supervision. Helping probationers secure healthcare coverage aligned with the Department’s public safety mission because having coverage increased access, for those who need it, to evidence-based treatments that reduce recidivism. While beyond the scope of typical probation business, the need for probationers to have access to these resources is so great, the Department instituted a three pronged approach by establishing partnerships with community organizations to ensure that probationers have access to outreach and in-person assistance to enroll in healthcare coverage and healthcare education. Over 7,500 probationers who were uninsured or underinsured filled out Commit Cards to be contacted by Enroll America. In-person assistance was provided to more than 649 individuals in Adult Probation’s Assessment Center by community partners, and an educational program was provided to over 73 individuals to ensure they understand healthcare and their coverage, and how to use it. The initiative was successful in identifying uninsured probationers and delivering education and assistance to increase probationers’ enrollment in, and knowledge of, healthcare.