Your dignity is still with you.
Health, privacy and respectful treatment in prison.
Is it hard to seek care because you fear rejection or others finding out?
Being in prison does not eliminate your dignity. The Nelson Mandela Rules establish international principles of healthcare, confidentiality and continuity. The specific procedures depend on the country and the center.
Health concerns need a healthcare response
Ask the healthcare team to listen to your symptoms and concerns without reducing them to your legal situation.
[12]
Ask how to request an appointment
If you do not know the process, ask healthcare staff or a support person. Find out how to report an urgent problem in your facility.
[12]
Request privacy
Ask if you can speak without others listening and who will have access to the information. Absolute secrecy cannot be promised in all situations.
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You need to understand what is proposed
Ask that the tests, treatments and results be explained to you in clear words. Ask what options you have and how your consent is collected.
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Plan for transfers and release
Ask how to continue your treatment and how the necessary information will reach the next healthcare team. Do not change the medication on your own.
[12]
Find a safe support channel
Ask about social assistance, legal support or complaint mechanisms available. Assess with support how to communicate a problem without exposing yourself unnecessarily.
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Seeking care is an important step.
A diagnosis or a conviction does not justify humiliation. This brochure informs and does not replace legal guidance about your case.
You can ask: “How can I continue my care if I am transferred or released?”
Sources and further information
- [12] UN / UN · Nelson Mandela Rules (2015) (opens another tab) ↗
International principles, especially rules 24-32 on healthcare, confidentiality and continuity. They do not replace the center's regulations or procedures.
Editorial adaptation of principles of dignity, communication and person-centered care. The phrases and questions are practical proposals, not literal quotes or a guarantee of specific services or rights. Results from the Spanish study on HIV are not generalized to this population.
Professional, community and language review pending.
Edition: 18/10/2026
Contact: Antonio Martín · MOBHOPE · antonio.martin@iisgm.com
Do not send diagnoses or personal documents to this address.
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