Prisoners’ Perceptions and Challenges in Accessing Care While Incarcerated: A Descriptive Study

Background Incarceration is a critical life transition that may affect prisoners’ health perceptions and access to care. Understanding these experiences is essential to address health vulnerabilities in detention settings. Aim To explore prisoners’ perceptions of health, the impact of incarceration, and challenges in accessing health care during early detention. Methods A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 10 prisoners in a French remand center. Data were analyzed using deductive thematic content analysis informed by Meleis’ Transition Theory. Results Incarceration was experienced as a situational transition frequently associated with psychological vulnerability. Although some participants perceived detention as an opportunity to improve their health, others reported negative health impacts. Barriers to care included overcrowding, low health literacy, and mistrust of the health care system. Adaptive responses involved positive reframing, establishment of new routines, engagement with health professionals, and reliance on social support. Discussion Incarceration emerged as a health paradox in which structural vulnerability coexists with perceived health stabilization. These findings underscore the importance of trust-building, health literacy promotion, and person-centered nursing interventions to support health engagement among incarcerated individuals.