Federal Bureau of Prisons

The Bureau's professional staff provides essential medical, dental, and mental health (psychiatric) services in a manner consistent with accepted community standards for a correctional environment. The Bureau uses licensed and credentialed health care providers in its ambulatory care units, which are supported by community consultants and specialists. For inmates with chronic or acute medical conditions, the Bureau operates several medical referral centers providing advanced care.

Health promotion is emphasized through counseling provided during examinations, education about the effects of medications, infectious disease prevention and education, and chronic care clinics for conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension. The Bureau promotes environmental health for staff and inmates alike through its emphasis on a clean-air environment and the maintenance of safe conditions in inmate living and work areas. The Bureau’s food service program emphasizes heart-healthy diets, nutrition education, and dietary counseling in conjunction with certain medical treatment.

Federal Medical Centers (FMCs) are accredited by the Joint Commission. Care Level 2 and Care Level 3 BOP institutions are accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC).

If you have concerns or questions about accreditation, please contact the Joint Commission or AAAHC.

* Please note: The Joint Commission and AAAHC are not able to address specific BOP inmate medical or health questions. If you have specific medical questions about an inmate, you are encouraged to contact the institution where he/she is currently located for assistance.