I have been hearing for quite some time from staff and various media sources about how wonderful the medical care is for inmates. If any were truly aware of the nature of the health system we have, no one would be envious of what we have.

First of all, one must understand that the nature of medical interaction in here is adversarial at best. Just the other day, a medical code was called in a building. Inmates got down and staff meandered their way to the building as if nothing could be wrong. Medical staff soon walked their way to the building with their kits pulled behind them nonchalantly. I have seen the same response for all five years that I have been here.

The prevailing attitude is that there is nothing medically wrong with us, and that our problems are creations of our imaginations and desires for drugs. Because of this attitude, there have been genuine medical injuries that should not have resulted in permanent damage but did.

So, is this the type of medical care that is so desired?

Yes, after many attempts at receiving care, some do get outstanding care and treatment from civilian physicians. But sometimes, even this care comes too late.

I remember being a part of an HMO and having the doctor actually interested in treating my problems, not telling me that I had no problem. Yes, costs built up sometimes. But care, true care, was available.

Now, I must have an injury that is in a completely destroyed state as opposed to just hurting to get any treatment. If I merely hurt, then I should take ibuprofen to alleviate the pain. If I want true medical treatment, then I must wait until the cartilage is completely torn away or the joint separated before the care is available.

The only time I have ever encountered such an attitude in medical was when I was in the army, and the same adversarial triage was in place. It wasn't beneficial then, and it sure isn't now.

I remember when I was stationed in Germany, and a member of my unit had anemia and dizziness. He repeatedly went to sick call and was told to take iron and other medication. Six months of this went on before they finally found that he had a bad heart valve. Then they arranged for him to be sent stateside for emergency surgery. He died on the flight.

So, again I ask—is this the type of medical care that everyone is jealous over?