Page 1568 - Week 04 - Thursday, 29 March 2012
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Options of this type will inform the government’s decision as to whether, when and what modifications or additions could or should be made to the AMC in future years and will be considered fully by the government shortly. As part of this process, specific needs such as for gymnasium facilities, a chapel and a quiet place are also being considered.
The government is also in the process of engaging a suitably experienced and qualified partner to examine corrections’ need for improved data management services. This activity will continue well into the next financial year.
As we grow to learn more about the intricacies of operating a highly unique correctional facility such as is the AMC, we are becoming better able to analyse and instigate necessary changes that relate to specific areas of operations. For example, we have reviewed the position responsibilities of our case managers and we have made changes to better suit the rehabilitation and educational needs of detainees generally, and detainees exiting out of the crisis support unit and detainees going through the therapeutic program.
The urinalysis policy and procedure have been tightened up to ensure that detainee testing is being undertaken on admission, that the importance of admission, random and targeted drug testing is highlighted in training, and that processes are in place to ensure the proper recording and reporting of related data.
On health-related issues, the task force has assured that night-time medication is given at the optimum time in the centre’s operational day, has reviewed matters around methadone dispensing administration and has confirmed that ACT Corrective Services officers are given sufficient training in appropriate supervision after medication is given. Other improvements have seen confirmation that the mental health consulting room is safe and that the CSU is being used for its intended purpose and not being used simply as a holding ward.
A number of equipment-related issues have been dealt with, including ensuring that medication trolleys are in serviceable condition, that temperature-controlled fridges are monitored for correct temperatures and that the supply and location of emergency medical packs, known as Parry packs, are adequate.
ACT Corrective Services staffing arrangements to facilitate detainee appointments at the Hume Health Centre have also been reviewed, and current arrangements have been confirmed as being adequate. Specific issues around access to medical services have been reviewed and addressed—such as the time taken to see a doctor after induction and the need to explain the purpose of blood tests for detainees on admission. ACT Health has confirmed that work in the arena of medical records has included supplementing staffing and providing training for records management staff.
As I mentioned earlier, the relationship between Corrective Services and Health is going from strength to strength and has been boosted by bilateral involvement in monthly meetings, fortnightly alcohol and other drugs meetings, meetings with emergency department staff at the Canberra Hospital and, as required, direct consultation with the Director-General of ACT Health.
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