|
|
| Philadelphia Ends Pact With Jail Firm |
| By Philadelphia Inquirer |
| Published: 07/05/2002 |
|
Philadelphia administrators recently announced that its contract with Prison Health Services to provide health care in the city's jails is being terminated. Each of the parties issued a blandly worded statement that did not acknowledge the controversy surrounding the health service. Both said the termination was by mutual agreement. The city said PHS would continue to provide health services while the city goes through the process of choosing a new provider. For months, advocates for prisoners have called on the city to end its $25 million contract with PHS, citing what they called inadequate medical care and preventable deaths. In a series of protests, former inmates, health-care advocates, and members of ACTUP marched on City Hall. The groups also have demonstrated at City Council meetings. They have questioned whether a lack of medical attention may have contributed to the death of Jose Santiago, a 28-year-old diabetic who was awaiting trial on drug charges when he died in custody in September 2000 after spending more than 24 hours without insulin. Rob O'Brien, an activist who has protested against PHS, praised the decision to end the contract but questioned whether the city would 'have the political will and the coordination to get a contract that will meet the needs that so clearly were not being met under PHS.' |
advertise
|
privacy policy
|
add URL
|
about us
|
terms/disclaimer
|
contact us
|
join our team
|
help
Comments:
No comments have been posted for this article.
Login to let us know what you think