A: Your incarcerated loved one can name any one person as their Next Of Kin at any time. To do so, your loved one needs to fill out a new Notification of and Communication with Next of Kin form (DRC5328) and turn it into the unit staff or institutional Medical Services staff. For more information, ODRC policy 66-ILL-03 (Notification of and Communication with Next of Kin – Inmate Illness/Injury) can be accessed here.
Q: Does the ODRC employ licensed/certified medical providers?
A: Yes, the ODRC medical care staff include Ohio-licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, dieticians, dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants.
Q: Can my loved one see a doctor if he/she has an acute medical issue, like a cold, a rash, or pain issues?
A: Yes, the ODRC provides access to Nurse’s Sick Call and Doctor’s Sick appointments. Your loved one just needs to complete a Health Services Request form (DRC5373) and drop it into a designated Health Services Request collection box at the institution.
Q: What happens if my loved one has a medical emergency at the institution?
A: Every ODRC institution provides 24-hour emergency medical care. Licensed medical staff are capable of administering emergency care/life-saving measures on-site. In the event that additional emergency care is needed, the ODRC can transfer your loved one to a local hospital emergency service department. For more information, ODRC policy 68-MED-20 (Emergency Services) may be accessed here.
Q: Can I send in my loved one his/her prescription medication or medical device?
A: Inmates generally do not have the option to purchase or receive prescription medication or medically related items from outside sources. Certain medically indicated devices may be authorized on a case-by-case basis. Contact the Health Care Administrator at your loved one’s institution to discuss options. For more information, ODRC policy 68-MED-01 (Medical Services) can be accessed here.
Q: Does my loved one have to have money to see the doctor?
A: All inmates with medical needs will have appropriate and reasonable access to health care services, regardless of financial status. Co-pays are administered in certain situations, but no inmate will be denied health care or treatment because of inability to pay. For more information, ODRC policy 68-MED-15 (Bureau of Medical Services Co-Payment Procedures) can be accessed here.