Correctional Health Services Administrator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s society, the importance of Correctional Health Services Administrators is more pronounced than ever before.
As our justice system continues to evolve, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can manage, optimize, and secure the healthcare services within correctional facilities.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s exactly expected from a Correctional Health Services Administrator?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply interested in the complexities of correctional health services administration,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Correctional Health Services Administrator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career websites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Correctional Health Services Administrator Duties and Responsibilities
Correctional Health Services Administrators provide leadership and oversee the provision of healthcare services in a correctional facility.
They ensure that detainees and inmates receive appropriate medical and mental health care in compliance with national and state health standards.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Developing and implementing health service programs and policies for the inmate population
- Overseeing the hiring, training, and supervision of health services staff
- Ensuring compliance with all relevant federal, state, and local laws and regulations pertaining to correctional health care
- Maintaining accurate records of health services provided and monitoring the overall health trends within the facility
- Coordinating with other administrators, outside agencies, and health care providers to ensure continuity of care for inmates
- Managing the facility’s health services budget, ensuring cost-effective utilization of resources
- Developing and enforcing safety and sanitation standards within the health services department
- Addressing and resolving any inmate complaints related to health services
- Participating in audits, inspections, and investigations related to health services in the facility
- Providing timely reports and briefings to higher management about health-related issues in the facility
Correctional Health Services Administrator Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are searching for a capable and dedicated Correctional Health Services Administrator to oversee health services in a correctional facility.
The Correctional Health Services Administrator is responsible for managing the delivery of medical, dental, mental health, and nursing services to inmates.
Our ideal candidate has a strong background in healthcare administration, excellent leadership skills, and a deep understanding of healthcare standards and regulations in a correctional setting.
Responsibilities
- Oversee the delivery of medical, dental, and mental health services to inmates
- Ensure compliance with healthcare standards and regulations
- Manage healthcare staff, including hiring, training, and performance evaluation
- Coordinate with correctional staff to ensure the safety and security of healthcare personnel
- Prepare and manage healthcare budget
- Develop and implement healthcare policies and procedures
- Conduct regular audits to ensure quality of care and compliance with regulations
- Address and resolve any issues or complaints regarding healthcare services
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a healthcare administrator, preferably in a correctional setting
- Knowledge of healthcare standards and regulations
- Strong leadership and organizational skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work under pressure and handle crisis situations
- Bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, public health, nursing, or related field
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Correctional Health Services Administrator
- Work Environment: Correctional facility with strict security protocols. This role may require working in high-stress and potentially dangerous situations.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Correctional Health Services.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $105,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Correctional Health Services Administrator Do?
Correctional Health Services Administrators are integral in ensuring the health and well-being of inmates in a correctional facility.
They typically work for private healthcare providers or directly for government-run facilities.
Their primary role involves planning, directing, and coordinating medical and health services in these facilities.
They must work with healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and therapists, to oversee the delivery of healthcare services to inmates.
One of the key responsibilities is to ensure the facility’s health services comply with the regulations set by the government and other relevant authorities.
They are also responsible for developing and implementing policies and procedures to improve the quality of care provided in the facility.
Budgeting is another crucial part of their job.
They need to manage the financial aspects of the healthcare services, including setting and working within budget constraints, negotiating with suppliers, and controlling costs.
Correctional Health Services Administrators need to stay updated about the latest healthcare trends and advancements to ensure that the facility’s services are up-to-date and effective.
They may also play a role in addressing any grievances related to healthcare services from the inmates, their families or facility staff, ensuring every concern is heard and resolved in a timely manner.
Additionally, they may be responsible for staff hiring, training, and performance evaluations in the health services department.
They must also ensure a safe, efficient, and ethical work environment.
In some cases, they may also collaborate with various community health organizations for health education, preventative care programs, and any other related initiatives that could benefit the health of the inmates.
Overall, a Correctional Health Services Administrator plays a significant role in managing and improving the healthcare services provided within correctional facilities.
Correctional Health Services Administrator Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Correctional Health Services Administrator should possess a mix of clinical knowledge, administrative abilities, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
These include:
- Strong understanding of healthcare management and administration, with an ability to oversee all health services within a correctional facility.
- Sound knowledge of public health and epidemiology, particularly as they relate to populations within correctional facilities.
- Leadership skills to manage and guide a team of healthcare professionals and administrative staff within the correctional facility.
- Communication skills to effectively interact with a diverse range of individuals, including inmates, correctional officers, healthcare providers, and external agencies.
- Knowledge of legal and ethical standards related to healthcare in correctional settings, ensuring that all practices adhere to relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines.
- Problem-solving abilities to address and resolve healthcare-related challenges and issues within the correctional facility.
- Good organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, keep track of patient records, and ensure smooth functioning of health services within the facility.
- Ability to work under pressure and in potentially stressful situations while maintaining professionalism and composure.
- Experience in budgeting and resource allocation, ensuring the most effective use of available resources for healthcare services in the facility.
Correctional Health Services Administrator Experience Requirements
Entry-level Correctional Health Services Administrators usually have at least a bachelor’s degree in health administration, criminal justice or a related field, and several years of experience in a healthcare setting.
This could be gained through internships or entry-level roles within a hospital or clinical setting, often with a focus on administrative duties.
Candidates with 2 to 5 years of experience often have more hands-on experience within a healthcare setting and may have taken on additional responsibilities such as staff supervision or program management.
They may also have gained experience in the correctional system, which is highly valuable for this role.
For those with more than 5 years of experience, they are often seasoned professionals who have gained a comprehensive understanding of healthcare administration in a correctional setting.
They may have held leadership roles in the past and have a proven track record of effective management and policy implementation.
In addition, those seeking senior-level roles as a Correctional Health Services Administrator often hold a master’s degree in health administration, public health, or a related field, coupled with substantial experience within the healthcare and correctional systems.
Correctional Health Services Administrator Education and Training Requirements
Correctional Health Services Administrators typically have a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, nursing, public health or a related field.
They are often required to have clinical experience in a healthcare setting, which can be gained through internships or previous employment.
This helps them better understand the unique challenges and requirements of providing healthcare in a correctional environment.
In addition, they need to have comprehensive knowledge in correctional laws and regulations, healthcare policies, and administrative management.
Some positions may require Correctional Health Services Administrators to hold a master’s degree in healthcare or business administration, or a related field.
This advanced education could provide a broader understanding of the healthcare system and managerial skills.
Certifications, although not typically required, can be beneficial.
They are usually provided by professional organizations and require the completion of an exam.
For example, the Certified Correctional Health Professional (CCHP) certification demonstrates expertise and commitment to excellence in this field.
Furthermore, many Correctional Health Services Administrators are required to have a few years of management experience in a healthcare setting.
This experience gives them the opportunity to develop leadership and decision-making skills necessary for the role.
Correctional Health Services Administrator Salary Expectations
A Correctional Health Services Administrator earns an average salary of $78,600 (USD) per year.
However, this can fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, the size and location of the correctional facility, and the complexity of the role itself.
Advanced degrees and additional certifications may also increase earning potential in this position.
Correctional Health Services Administrator Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Correctional Health Services Administrator need?
A Correctional Health Services Administrator should possess strong leadership and management skills, as they need to oversee the health services within a correctional facility.
They should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with health service staff, correctional officers, and inmates.
Knowledge of healthcare administration and correctional systems, along with a firm understanding of public health concerns, is also essential.
Do Correctional Health Services Administrators need a degree?
Yes, Correctional Health Services Administrators typically need at least a Bachelor’s degree in Health Administration, Public Health, Nursing, or a related field.
However, many correctional facilities prefer candidates with a Master’s degree in Health Administration or a related field.
They also need experience in healthcare administration, preferably within a correctional setting.
What should you look for in a Correctional Health Services Administrator resume?
A strong resume for this role should show relevant education, including a degree in Health Administration or similar.
Previous experience in healthcare management is a must, particularly within correctional or public health settings.
Certifications in healthcare management or public health could also be an asset.
Look for evidence of leadership skills, excellent communication, and the ability to manage complex healthcare systems within a correctional setting.
What qualities make a good Correctional Health Services Administrator?
A good Correctional Health Services Administrator should demonstrate strong leadership and management abilities, as they will oversee the delivery of healthcare services within the facility.
They should be adaptable and able to thrive in challenging environments.
They must have a deep understanding of public health and healthcare administration, along with knowledge of correctional systems.
Finally, empathy and respect for the inmate population they serve are crucial qualities.
What are the challenges of being a Correctional Health Services Administrator?
Being a Correctional Health Services Administrator presents several challenges.
They work in a correctional setting where security measures can make the delivery of health services more complex.
They manage staff who provide care to an often underserved and high-risk population.
They also need to ensure compliance with healthcare regulations within the constraints of a correctional facility.
The role requires a high level of adaptability, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Conclusion
There you have it.
Today, we’ve given you an inside look at what it truly means to be a Correctional Health Services Administrator.
And guess what?
It’s not just about overseeing health services within correctional facilities.
It’s about playing a vital role in the healthcare system, one decision at a time.
With our comprehensive Correctional Health Services Administrator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.
But why stop there?
Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precision-driven job listings or refining your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every decision you make affects the bigger picture.
Let’s create a healthier future, together.
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