Down the Road Care: A Discharge Expansion Program

Abstract

The high recidivism rates of severely mentally ill (SMI) inmates in a Southern California County pose a significant challenge for the local correctional and mental health systems. This study investigates the causes and contributing factors to the high recidivism rates among this population, and attempts an innovation aiming to improve discharge planning and post-release outcomes. Despite efforts from a contracted mental health service provider (CMHSP) to stabilize individuals with SMI, inadequate discharge planning frequently leads to re-arrest. This comprehensive project utilizes a Community Engagement and Social Innovation (CESI) model framework to address the complicated issues of this population. Beginning with personal and professional observations of the county jail program, a historical overview to identify the context of the issue and integration of a Christian perspective with a sociological perspective is explored. Furthermore, community members and stakeholders of a Southern California jail program were engaged. A scoping review of relevant literature and past interventions for jail populations was assessed. Several themes were identified leading to a social innovation to address inadequate continuity of care, co-occurring substance use disorders, clinical and non-clinical resources, as well as active symptoms. This comprehensive study redesigned the CMHSP’s program polices and provided a training to its employees evaluating for the effectiveness of the training. The dissemination of preliminary data on the effectiveness of the innovation is discussed. This project aims to reduce recidivism rates and improve the quality of life for individuals with SMI labels aligning the Social Work Grand Challenge of promoting smart decarceration.