Persons Deprived of Liberty as Patients: Level of Satisfaction on Healthcare Services of PDLs in Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Jail (NVPJ)

Imprisonment leads to disconnection from the outside world, resulting in feelings of isolation for persons deprived of liberty. This disconnection often contributes to the neglect of their healthcare needs, heightening their risk of medical issues due to insufficient attention, inadequate facilities, and a shortage of healthcare staff. In light of these challenges, this study evaluates the satisfaction levels of persons deprived of liberty at Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Jail in terms of technical quality, interpersonal manner, communication, time spent with healthcare providers, accessibility, and general satisfaction with healthcare services. Utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods, data were gathered through a survey questionnaire administered to the total jail population, with profile variables including age, number of consultations annually, health conditions, and time spent in prison. Findings indicate very high patient satisfaction across all factors, with communication attaining the highest, followed closely by technical quality and general satisfaction. Notably, there was no significant difference among the variables. The study highlights the need for enhanced health through physical activities and continuous nursing presence. It suggests that implementing improved healthcare services in correctional facilities can lead to better health outcomes for incarcerated individuals. These findings advocate for systemic reforms that prioritize the healthcare needs of incarcerated individuals. While providing valuable insights, generalizability may be limited, as medical care in detention centers differs from broader society.