Ensuring Timely Access to Medicaid and SSI/SSDI for People with Mental Illness Released from Prison: Four Case Studies

This fact sheet from the Council of State Governments Criminal Justice/Mental Health Consensus Project, in conjunction with the Re-Entry Policy Council, provides an analysis of case studies from four states, identifying common elements of success, highlights from each state, and continuing challenges to state efforts.

December 2007 | The Council of State Governments and Re-Entry Policy Council

Among people in prison with mental illnesses, many are enrolled in (or are eligible for) Supplemental Security Income/Social Security Disability Insurance (SSI/SSDI) and Medicaid to support their medical treatment prior to incarceration, but few are enrolled in these federal benefit or entitlement programs upon release. As a result, their access to medications and treatment—elements typically essential to compliance with conditions of release for people with mental illness—is severely limited, presenting a significant obstacle to their successful transition back to the community.

You might also be interested in

Reentry 2030 States Explore Day 1 Employment Readiness After Incarceration

8 states gathered to discuss workforce solutions for formerly incarcerated people.

Read More

Local Criminal Justice System Innovations in Mental Health Services: Q&A with CSG Justice Center Advisory Board Member Dr. Doreen Williams

"It is the humane, person-centered approach that supports and stabilizes individuals, their families, and their communities."

Read More

2025 Nominations Now Open for Judges and Psychiatrists Improving Lives and Behavioral Health

The Judge Stephen S. Goss Memorial Award for Leadership has expanded to include Lifetime Achievement Awards and, in…

Read More