Geographic Access to Behavioral Health Services after Reentry from the Washington State Juvenile Justice System
Year: 2018
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Youth confined in residential juvenile correctional facilities experience a high prevalence of mental health and substance use disorder relative to the general population. Access to behavioral health services after reentry to the community is important for preventing costly recidivism and promoting youth success. Methods: A geographic information system (GIS) was used to compare estimated youth reentry locations to behavioral health facility locations. Youth location data was compiled from Washington State administrative records (n = 950), and facility data was compiled from a state directory (n = 877). Analysis: Availability of behavioral health services was calculated as number of facilities within a 10-mile radius of estimated youth reentry location, and accessibility was calculated as shortest distance from youth to facility. Results: Maps and descriptive summary statistics indicate regions of low access to care for this youth population, particularly in rural regions of the state. Implications: The findings and methodological approach of this study may influence policy and practice in juvenile justice.
Author: Elaine Michelle Albertson
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2910495139