Transforming Correctional Health in Oklahoma: Implementing an Interoperable Electronic Health Record System to Improve Outcomes for Incarcerated Youth and Former Foster Care Populations - The Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA), in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC) as a sub-recipient, is requesting $5,000,000 in grant funding through Section 206 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA), 2024, to purchase and implement a new Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, without this entire amount the EHR implementation will not be possible for Oklahoma. This initiative supports implementation of the Section 5121 federal mandate, which requires physical health screenings and diagnostic services for two priority populations: inmates under age 21 and former foster youth under age 26. Incarcerated populations in Oklahoma face some of the state’s most significant health disparities, reflecting broader challenges in statewide health outcomes. This proposal addresses that issue by establishing a standardized data system to assess service availability and identify gaps across the correctional health system. The goal is to support better-informed decision-making and more effective resource allocation. The new EHR system will offer a bi-directional, web-based platform that enables secure data exchange across qualified agencies. This interoperability will ensure that essential health information is accessible upon release, improving continuity of care for high-risk individuals who need ongoing medical, dental, behavioral health, or specialty services. The system will support compliance with Section 5121, CAA mandate and align with Medicaid and CHIP State Plans by enabling timely health assessments and targeted case management. The project will also integrate the EHR with ODOC’s Offender Management System (ICON), providing real-time access to Inmate Health Assessment Protocol (IHAP) data. This integration will further support continuity of care and better health outcomes during and after incarceration. This funding is critical to advancing OHCA and ODOC’s joint efforts to support successful transitions from incarceration to community-based care. The proposed initiative will improve health outcomes, reduce long-term healthcare costs, and support reintegration, advancing both public health and criminal justice system goals.
