Telehealth can connect providers with patients who face significant barriers to care—including those in correctional facilities.

According to a survey conducted by the CDC, 30 states have used telehealth for diagnostic services in correctional facilities within the past year. Most of telehealth services in prisons included psychiatric and cardiac care.

“Initially we implemented [telehealth] for the efficiency part, to avoid hours of transport,” said Dr. Ross MacDonald, chief medical officer for NYC Health + Hospitals/Correctional Health Services, which runs the healthcare services at Rikers Island in the Bronx, New York. “But what we’ve learned over time is that it really improves clinical care.” Telehealth allows the referring physician at the jail to consult with the specialist at the hospital as a team, and together clarify information for the patient.”

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