T
he provision of quality health care in any setting is the product of a concerted effort. Correctional settings are no different in this regard. Although practicing psychiatry in a prison or jail setting is challenging in many ways, a well-orchestrated team not only makes it easier but also better.
Detecting mental illness or psychological distress in inmates can be challenging, and the more observers that are involved in their care, the less likely that something significant will be missed. And, determining whether a given intervention is effective is likely to be much clearer and more accurate.
Unfortunately, patients in forensic and correctional settings also exhibit malingering at a much higher rate than do non-forensic mental health patients. Therefore, if a psychiatrist or other mental health professional attempts to do his or her job in isolation, it will be much more challenging to determine whether a given patient may be exaggerating or feigning symptoms. Even if they are, they still may be suffering from psychological distress that could benefit from having several disciplines involved in their care.
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