BOP Program Statement 6031.06 § 19

Sick call is the process that allows inmates access to health care providers for acute issues (e.g., a

“walk-in” inmate-initiated visit). Clinicians will ordinarily conduct sick call and schedule

appointments on weekdays, except on federal holidays, during HSU’s operating hours. Sick call

concerns must be:

 made by the inmate in person.

 assessed and triaged by a qualified health care provider (Paramedic, Registered Nurse (RN),

APP). Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)/Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN)/Medical

Assistants cannot triage an inmate independently but can help in the triage process (e.g., take

vital signs, gather basic medical history/chief complaint, and perform tasks per protocol or at

RN/APP direction).

 documented as a clinical encounter in the EHR and include history of concern, vital signs,

triage exam, and disposition.

 tracked by the HSA to ensure appropriate timeliness of care and to identify trends and risks.

Inmates presenting with urgent conditions will be assessed and treated by an appropriate provider

expeditiously. Inmates presenting with non-urgent complaints will be assessed to determine

stability, reassured, and scheduled for follow-up according to clinical indication or wait until the

next scheduled CCC.

National nursing/paramedic protocols must be utilized by all institutions as below:

 Facilities may create additional protocols to supplement those established nationally to

address the unique needs of the facility or inmate population (e.g., colonoscopy prep

protocols, telehealth protocols, etc.).

 The CD retains authority for annual review and implementation of protocols. Modifications

may be made to the national protocols, but only after review and concurrence by the

Regional Medical Director.

 The HSA and CD will ensure documented training and competency for staff utilizing

protocols is offered according to Bureau policy.

 Staff working under protocols will utilize the appropriate EHR template/encounter when

utilizing protocols in the facility.

If no follow-up appointment is warranted based on a sick call concern, the screening clinician will

advise the inmate of other options (e.g., obtaining over-the-counter medications from

Commissary, alter diet or physical activity, return to the clinic if symptoms do not improve, etc.).

Inmates who are evaluated on multiple, distinct occasions for the same, unresolved complaint

without a definite diagnosis or fail to respond to treatment will be referred to the CD or physician

during the third such encounter. The physician will evaluate the inmate within a reasonable time

frame based on the severity of the medical condition.

Co-pays are applicable for sick calls per the Program Statement Inmate Copayment Program.

6031.06 6/22/2026 PROPERTY OF US GOVERNMENT 33