Learn about the most important services offered to inmates in U.S. prisons, including medical care, education, commissary, communication, rehabilitation programs, and more.

1. Medical and Mental Health Care

Keyword: inmate healthcare services
All inmates have access to basic medical care, including doctor visits, dental services, emergency care, and medication management. Mental health services such as counseling, suicide prevention, psychiatric evaluations, and substance abuse treatment are also available.

2. Commissary Services

Keyword: prison commissary
The commissary allows inmates to buy food, snacks, hygiene products, clothing, writing supplies, and sometimes electronics like radios or tablets. Inmates use funds deposited by family or earned through prison jobs.

3. Educational Programs

Many prisons offer:

GED preparation
High school equivalency programs
College correspondence courses
ESL (English as a Second Language) classes
Basic literacy programs

Education helps inmates reduce recidivism and improve future job opportunities.

4. Vocational Training

Prison vocational programs
Inmates can train in fields such as:

Carpentry
Electrical work
Welding
Culinary arts
Automotive repair
Computer skills

These programs provide certification and real-world job skills.

5. Communication Services

Inmate communication services
Staying in touch with family is crucial. Most prisons offer:

Phone calls
Email or secure messaging (via tablets)
Video visitation
Traditional mail services

These tools strengthen relationships and support emotional stability.

6. Recreational and Fitness Programs

Recreation is an important part of maintaining physical and mental health. Facilities may offer:

Outdoor yard time
Sports (basketball, soccer, handball)
Weightlifting (in some prisons)
Arts and crafts
Music programs

Recreation reduces stress and helps maintain structure.

7. Substance Abuse Programs

Prisons often offer:

Alcohol and drug education
Support groups (AA, NA)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Long-term rehabilitation programs

These services aim to reduce relapse and promote healthy behavior.

8. Religious and Spiritual Services

Keyword: prison chaplain services
Most facilities have chaplains who organize faith-based activities and services. Inmates may attend worship sessions, study groups, confidential counseling, and religious ceremonies.

9. Work Programs

Inmates may work inside the facility in:

Kitchen duty
Laundry
Cleaning
Maintenance
Landscaping
Prison industries (manufacturing, agriculture, etc.)

These jobs pay small wages but provide discipline and a sense of purpose.

Inmates practicing on a skills test as part of the TRAC prgram at the Washington’s correctional center in Gig Harbor.

10. Legal Assistance Services

Prisons offer access to:

Law libraries
Legal forms
Assistance with filing appeals or grievances

While inmates must handle their own legal cases, these services ensure they have basic access to legal resources.

Final Thoughts

The services offered inside U.S. prisons go beyond basic survival. From healthcare and education to communication tools and rehabilitation programs, these services play a vital role in supporting inmates’ well-being, reducing conflict, and preparing them for life after release.