Today – May 28 – International Women’s Health Day 2025 – carries a powerful message: Accelerate Action. This theme calls for urgent, concrete steps to close gender gaps and uplift women’s health, education, and economic opportunities. At the NCCHC Foundation, we know that meaningful action must include one of the most overlooked populations — women in correctional facilities.
Women in Corrections: Facing Deep Health Disparities
Although women make up a smaller percentage of the incarcerated population, they face significantly higher rates of chronic illness, mental health issues, substance use disorders, and trauma. Many enter correctional settings with long-neglected health needs — and limited access to quality care inside.
These challenges stem from deeper societal inequities in health access, income, education, and safety. If we’re serious about gender equity, we must prioritize the health and dignity of women behind bars.
How the NCCHC Foundation Is Accelerating Action
We’re committed to supporting the correctional health care professionals who serve these women every day — and equipping them with the tools and knowledge to make a difference. In 2025, we are accelerating action by:
- Providing Scholarships: Helping early-career professionals and supporting a diverse correctional health care workforce — including women from underrepresented backgrounds — ensures compassionate, culturally responsive care. (Apply for a Scholarship for National Conference 2025 through July 7)
- Offering Specialized Education: Free live webinars along with on-demand webinars for only $69 like Women’s Health in Corrections: Evidence-Based Updates and Practical Strategies explore the unique needs of incarcerated women and promote evidence-based care.
- Expanding Mentorship: Our workforce initiatives create space for more women to lead and be supported in correctional health careers, strengthening both individual professionals and the field as a whole.
Together, We Move Forward
Accelerating action for women means ensuring they are seen, respected, and cared for — even behind the walls. At the NCCHC Foundation, we’re proud to stand at the intersection of gender equity and correctional health care.
