Sociological and Criminological Approach the Multilevel Health

Population health was assessed on a multilevel framework for incarcerated people. A sociological and criminological approach was taken to research population health and the effects of mass incarceration beyond the individual. A multilevel model of health was examined for social exclusion theory addressing the impact of social policy decisions within prisons cause disconnect between parents and children, removing the opportunity for healthy development of children (Jahn 2020). This multilevel approach allows us to understand how these health policies effect individual health of the inmate and population health of the community left behind. Ethnicity and racial determinants of health can also be considered within this multilevel healthcare approach based on an ecosocial theory. This theory addresses the correlation between exposure and disease that focuses on inequities in health status in subgroups (Krieger 2012). Using the ecosocial theory and sociological approach to health, policy makers are challenged to change their practice from correctional policy of addressing after harm happens. Instead, the theory and multilevel approach focuses on determinants of health such as poverty, race and political disenfranchisement that may contribute to individuals and communities to resort in criminal activities “as a means of survival” (Krieger 2012).

This model of health really caught my attention because I have recently been offered a position with the Ontario Solicitor General to run the healthcare program within the Ottawa Jail. This is something I am going to have to understand more regarding this population, so this week was interesting for me to challenge my views on multilevel models of health and population health that effects more than our typical community we think of. As a nurse, when assessing population health, I often overlook this group of people. I am excited to see where this course will take me within my new role and how it will challenge me to focus on large issues, assess the needs of a community and utilize resources I have gathered along the way.