Linn inmate’s medical complaints downplayed

I am an inmate at the Linn County Jail. Recently, two people have died here. One was a suicide, the other was a medical issue. I am saddened by each death. For many of us, jail is our saving grace. Still, some inmates have a hard time adjusting. It is beautiful when we are there to look after and support each other. We are not all hardened criminals. We are human beings.

Unfortunately, we are often denied the right to feel that way in here. Not by each other, but by the employees of this jail. We live in an environment where our word is constantly questioned and many times we are told we need to prove we are sick. Our medications are dispensed by people who are not all licensed medical professionals, but they are certified to pass meds. Many times these same correctional officers will not give our medical complaints any validity. To see a doctor, we have to go through the proper channels. That means our complaints are discredited by numerous people before the doctor decides if we will be seen.

As for medical emergencies, well, sheriff's deputies evaluate us, but I have yet to find any with an M.D. or R.N. or even an L.P.N. behind their name.

Recently, the following happened to me: My meds were withheld, accidentally, of course. I was given someone else's medication. My cardiac medication was mispronounced and also crushed by the nurse, which is not in the orders.

How many more must die in here before someone investigates? How many more must feel like nobody cares?

Mary Webster

Cedar Rapids