Health Status of Persons Deprived of Liberty in a Jail Facility in the Philippines

Abstract

This study addressed a local research gap by examining the health status of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in a city jail in the Philippines, an area with limited setting-specific evidence despite broader studies on correctional conditions. It aimed to identify the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health needs of PDLs and provide evidence for appropriate health interventions. Using a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design, the researchers employed purposive sampling and administered survey questionnaires to 523 respondents from male and female dormitories. The findings showed that hypertension was the most common health condition (12.4%), followed by asthma (4.2%). Respondents reported high levels of spiritual health (M = 3.91), social belonging (M = 3.84), and emotional resilience (M = 3.76), all linked to religious activities and family connections. However, gaps were found in physical health services, particularly in adherence to daily maintenance medication, which received the lowest mean score (M = 2.88). These gaps were linked to limited resources, including budget constraints and a low nurse-to inmate ratio. Overall, the study found that while PDLs showed strengths in social, spiritual, and emotional well-being, access to physical healthcare remained inadequate. The study concludes that jail health programs need to be strengthened through more regular medical check-ups, improved access to medicines, and stronger wellness support for PDLs.