Annual Conference of National Commission on Correctional Health Care

By: Jim Bleeke

In October 2010, I (Jim Bleeke) had the opportunity to attend the annual conference of NCCHC in Las Vegas. In addition to having the opportunity to meet and socialize with clients and many of the people who work in the industry, the conference also provided excellent educational insights into many of the issues that arise as we defend correctional health care providers in litigation.

In particular, I appreciated the Panel discussion regarding trends in correctional health care lawsuits and what to do about those trends. Using lawsuits and adverse events as a way to improve care through vigorous total quality improvement efforts also was well-presented.

It is gratifying as a defense lawyer to see how hard the correctional healthcare interest works to try to improve the quality of service for the growing incarcerated population in our country. We welcome the opportunity to assist in risk management projects, as well as defense of suits when they occur.