Tag: mental-health

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Prison medical staff shortage worsens as security shortage eases

Gary Dickson

The South Dakota Department of Corrections faces a significant nursing shortage, with vacancy rates of 53% for licensed practice nurses and 40% for registered nurses. Secretary Kellie Wasko attributes these issues to unsafe working conditions and challenges competing with the private sector amid a nationwide nursing shortage. Efforts are underway to improve staff conditions. Continue reading Prison medical staff shortage worsens as security shortage eases

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DOC faulted for confusion that led to jails’ illegal seizure of inmate funds

Gary Dickson

The Iowa Department of Corrections has declined to amend its rules to prevent county jails from unlawfully seizing inmates’ funds for medical expenses prior to conviction, according to the state ombudsman. This longstanding issue arises from discrepancies between state law and administrative procedures, prompting ongoing recommendations for rule changes. Continue reading DOC faulted for confusion that led to jails’ illegal seizure of inmate funds

Healthcare, IowaLeave a comment

Iowa revokes license of nurse imprisoned for massive insurance-fraud scheme

Gary Dickson

The Iowa Board of Nursing revoked Elizabeth Hernandez’s nursing license after her indictment for a Medicare fraud scheme that cost insurers $192 million. Convicted of multiple federal charges, she collected $1.6 million through fraudulent telemedicine practices. Another nurse, Ashley Brown, settled allegations involving unnecessary prescriptions and kickbacks. Continue reading Iowa revokes license of nurse imprisoned for massive insurance-fraud scheme

Crime, Sioux City, SiouxlandLeave a comment

Work release inmate on the lam from Sioux City’s RTF

Gary Dickson

Myron Allen Dumarce, a 20-year-old man convicted of various crimes, failed to return to the Sioux City Residential Treatment Facility. The facility aims to aid high-risk individuals in re-entry and rehabilitation. Dumarce’s history includes eluding the police. Authorities are seeking information on his whereabouts. Continue reading Work release inmate on the lam from Sioux City’s RTF

Government, HealthcareLeave a comment

Amid mental health crisis, new compact allows social workers to practice across state lines

Gary Dickson

Sex therapist and social worker Stefani Goerlich struggles when clients move away from Michigan due to restrictions on providing telehealth services across state lines. In response to America’s mental health crisis, an increasing number of states are empowering social workers to practice across state lines. The Social Work Licensure Compact is facilitating this, benefiting practitioners and patients alike. Continue reading Amid mental health crisis, new compact allows social workers to practice across state lines

Crime, Justice2 Comments

Judge holds Iowa Department of Corrections in contempt for violating order

Gary Dickson

The Iowa Department of Corrections was fined $1,500 for contempt of court after violating a judge’s order on inmate access to adult materials. The inmates’ lawsuit alleged denial of access to content with nudity or sexual explicitness. The DOC’s actions were deemed willful, resulting in multiple violations of the court order. (Word count: 50) Continue reading Judge holds Iowa Department of Corrections in contempt for violating order

Government, Healthcare, South DakotaLeave a comment

DOH unveils WOW Mobile Clinics to improve healthcare access to underserved communities in South Dakota

Gary Dickson

The South Dakota Department of Health is launching Wellness on Wheels (WOW) mobile clinics to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities. The initiative aims to address healthcare barriers, improve health outcomes, and promote wellness. The mobile clinics will offer a range of services including WIC, immunizations, oral health, and STD testing, among others. Continue reading DOH unveils WOW Mobile Clinics to improve healthcare access to underserved communities in South Dakota