Biometric Monitoring Enhances Inmate Wellness

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, a little over 1.2 million adults were in state or federal correctional facilities in 2022. California and Texas housed the largest populations at 97,608 and 139,631, respectively ^[1]. In its FY 2022 second-quarter report, the Federal Bureau of Prisons reported their inmate-to-correctional-officer ratio at 98 institutions. The highest inmate-to-correctional-officer ratio was 17.0:1, and the lowest was 3.3:1 ^[2]. Ensuring inmates' physical and mental safety and well-being within any correctional facility is paramount. However, with one correctional officer responsible for 3 to 17 inmates, knowing what is happening with each inmate presents a challenge.

In this blog, we will explore how data-driven monitoring can help law enforcement, correctional officers, and prison staff be aware of an inmate’s biometric changes in real-time and provide necessary interventions quickly.

Inmate Well-being

Inadequate access to healthcare and health-related resources can lead to poor health and unknown health conditions. Individuals housed in pre-trial institutions and correctional facilities are more prone to poor health when compared to the rest of the U.S. population ^[3]. Mental health and chronic conditions, infectious diseases, and drug dependence in the inmate population can create challenges for those responsible for their care and law enforcement agencies. Technology has played an increasingly significant role in helping ensure inmates’ well-being in recent years. One such technological advancement is real-time biometric monitoring.

Biometric Technology and Biometric Data

The use of biometrics dates back to 500 BC in the Babylonian Empire. Certain biometric data, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and retinal scans, are used for identification and security. Other biometric data includes measuring and monitoring the body's basic functions. This type of biometric data can aid in caring for individuals in pre-trial and correctional facilities.

Real-time monitoring continuously monitors the individual using the wearable device. The device tracks basic-function biometrics, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. The real-time data, in tandem with built-in algorithms and artificial intelligence, allows the recipient of the data to review abnormalities and detect potential issues or emergencies as they happen. This enables quicker response time. Improved inmate safety is not the only advantage of real-time biometric monitoring. It also helps reduce false alarms, decreases costs, and promotes a healthier inmate population.

Now, the question is, how can correctional facilities implement such a system effectively? That is where 4Sight Labs comes in.

4Sight Labs’ Solution

4Sight Labs offers cutting-edge solutions for real-time biometric monitoring in pre-trial and correctional facilities. One such solution is OverWatch™. OverWatch is a wearable wristband monitoring system with an embedded biosensor. This sensor monitors the user’s basic functions. It accurately collects data and sends timely alerts at the first sign of a potential issue. The wristband also has RFID tracking so the user’s location is always known.

The power of data-driven real-time biometric monitoring is a game-changer for police departments, correctional facilities, detainees, and inmates. Newly incarcerated individuals may have unknown health issues, including stress-related impacts or narcotic withdrawals. Additionally, the aging inmate population has higher rates of chronic health conditions, disabilities, and/or geriatric conditions.

With 4Sight Labs' advanced solutions, we can take a significant step toward ensuring a safer and more secure environment for inmates and staff. To learn more about 4Sight Labs and how OverWatch™ can positively impact your facility or department, visit our website or request a demo.

REFERENCES

1. Carson, E. A., PhD, & Kluckow, R. (2023, November). Prisoners in 2022 – Statistical Tables. Bureau of Justice Statistics. Retrieved January 22, 2024, from https://bjs.ojp.gov/document/p...
2. U.S. Department of Justice (2022, November 7). Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Inmate to Correctional Officer Ratio FY 2022 Second Quarter Report. Justice Management Division. Retrieved January 22, 2024, from https://www.bop.gov/about/stat...
3. Macmadu, A., & J. D. Rich. “Correctional Health Is Community Health.” Issues in Science and Technology 32, no. 1 (Fall 2015)