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Abstract: 

Recidivism poses significant challenges not only to the criminal justice system but also to public health. Recidivism, which can be defined in multiple ways, including rearrest, reconviction, or reincarceration, is here understood as the recurrence of incarceration among previously released individuals. This paper explores the complex relationships between incarceration, reentry, and health and argues that addressing the unmet health needs of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals is critical to reducing recidivism and building healthier communities. The discussion includes stories from people with lived experience to delve into the personal and communal impacts of this cycle and to emphasize the urgent need for integrated healthcare solutions within corrections.

Keywords: Criminal justice system, recidivism, criminal justice and health, integrated healthcare solutions, health and employment

Affiliations:  1: Beyond Us & Them; 2: Beyond Us & Them; 3: Pomona College; 4: Brown University.