Connecting people coming out of incarceration to healthcare and other reentry resources in the community.
The Formerly Incarcerated Transitions (FIT) Clinic program was founded in 2015 in partnership with Voice of the Experienced (VOTE) and the Prisoner to Patient (P2P) Initiative to eliminate healthcare disparities and achieve health equity among formerly incarcerated persons. We do this by directly connecting people coming out of incarceration with medical, mental health and substance use treatment in the communities to which they are returning.
People who serve prison sentences, even if previously in good health, tend to leave correctional facilities with chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, hepatitis and cancer. Our mission is to provide continued care for these patients.
Healthcare Needs
The reentry period post-incarceration can be overwhelming, with barriers to obtaining housing, employment, and educational opportunities. Health needs are often overlooked by the system at the time of release. We know that incarcerated persons often have chronic medical needs and may not be familiar with the health system back in their communities. Often people are released without medications, insurance or follow-up for their health needs.
Community Health Workers
Our Community Health Workers are our experts and our greatest resource. They understand the challenges of reentry and trauma of incarceration and serve as liaisons between those returning home and the medical community.
Healthcare is one piece of the reentry puzzle. The FIT Clinic program works in partnership with other reentry organizations to maximize chances of success.
“The FIT Clinic is the first step in combating recidivism. After serving 6 years, I was provided with excellent medical attention. The staff was very attentive to my needs as a patient. I received wrap around services for Re-entry. I recommend this clinic to anyone. A successful Re-entry starts at FIT”
— Dave Duranda
FIT Community Health Worker Danielle Metz in conversation with Mr. Derek Thomas regarding his experiences seeking healthcare post-incarceration.