BASELINE FOR SUCCESSFUL REHABILITATION Healthcare The timely identification and appropriate treatment of health issues, including drug and alcohol dependency, mental health conditions and any history of previous abuse, can play a significant role in the successful rehabilitation of prisoners, particularly if complemented by post-release care and support. When physical and mental healthcare needs are identified at an early stage of incarceration, prisoners can be allocated to facilities that can provide for their needs, including in relation to available healthcare services and medication, appropriate rehabilitation services, and work and training opportunities. Even where specialised support is not available, the identification of specific needs can help prison administrations tailor individualised treatment programmes. If health issues are undiagnosed or untreated, or if there is no post-release care and support, former prisoners may find rehabilitation difficult and may struggle to successfully interact with others. They may also find it difficult to secure appropriate employment and housing after their release. The amount of time prisoners can spend outside their cells is a crucial factor in health and rehabilitation. Participation in education and training should never be used by prison staff to justify restrictions on time spent outside the cell for other activities, including opportunities to exercise and participate in sports. Women and girls in prison have particular healthcare and sanitary needs. Rules 6–18 of the Bangkok Rules provide detailed guidance on healthcare provision for these needs. Rule 48 also provides more detailed guidance on the medical and nutritional needs of pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and mothers with children in prison. In order to respond to the healthcare needs of female prisoners – a crucial factor in their rehabilitation – prison authorities must provide female-specific services, including sexual and reproductive healthcare, and appropriate programmes and services should be available to those who have experienced violence, including domestic violence and sexual abuse. 28 | Penal Reform International and Thailand Institute of Justice | Guide to the rehabilitation and social reintegration of women prisoners