A qualitative exploration of HIV/AIDS health care services in Indian prisons.

HIV illness has emerged as one of the pressing public health concerns in correctional systems. This article is a qualitative exploration of the state of health care services with regard to HIV/AIDS in three correctional facilities in Maharashtra state in India. Case studies of 10 reported cases of HIV-positive inmates were prepared from their narratives obtained through face-to-face in-depth unstructured interviews. The data were analyzed thematically. High-risk behavior among prisoners, inadequate access to health care services for HIV-positive inmates, and lack of HIV/AIDS prevention programs emerged as some of the major areas of concern. Collaboration of the Prison Department with the National Aids Control Programme is a key recommendation.