Barriers and facilitators: parolees' perceptions of community health care.

Paroled individuals have physical and mental health problems and addiction disorders at rates greater than the general population. The aim of this study was to identify the perceived barriers and facilitators parolees encounter in their efforts to access and utilize health care services in the community. Qualitative data were collected via individual interviews with 17 chronically ill, middle-aged male parolees. Study results included financial and administrative barriers to care; structural facilitators to care; and the influence of clinicians' professional demeanor on health care access. Increased access to health care can provide opportunities to address both the health care and reintegration needs of individuals on parole.