Study Finds Individuals With Criminal Legal History Use Emergency Departments More Frequently

Individuals with a history of criminal legal involvement visit emergency departments at higher rates than the general population, according to a study published in the journal *PLOS One*. Researchers led by Vidya Eswaran of Washington University in St. Louis found that these individuals frequently seek emergency care specifically for issues related to substance use and mental health.

The study analyzed data to determine the correlation between past or current contact with the criminal justice system and the utilization of emergency medical services. The findings indicate that this demographic experiences a greater frequency of emergency department encounters compared to those without such legal involvement. By identifying these patterns, the researchers highlight a distinct trend in healthcare usage among individuals navigating the intersection of the criminal justice and public health systems.

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Date: July 8, 2026

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GOAI