Transforming Behavioral Health Care in Jails: How Integrated Telehealth Partners Is Making a Difference

Behavioral health challenges remain one of the most significant, and often overlooked, drivers of repeat incarceration. Across the country, local jails are increasingly serving individuals facing mental health conditions, substance use disorders, or both. Addressing these needs effectively isn’t just about care. It’s about public safety, community health, and breaking cycles of recidivism.

A recent radio conversation on KWBG featuring Doug Wilson, president and founder of Integrated Telehealth Partners (ITP), alongside Boone County Sheriff Andy Godzicki and Jail Administrator Abbey Swank, highlights how innovative partnerships are reshaping how correctional facilities respond to these challenges.

Meeting a Critical Need Inside Jail Walls

Correctional facilities have long struggled with limited access to behavioral health services. Traditionally, inmates in crisis often had to be transported to the facility for care, creating logistical challenges, safety risks, and delays in treatment. ITP was built to solve that problem.

“For about 10 years now, we’ve focused on bringing behavioral health services directly into correctional facilities,” Wilson explained. “Telebehavioral health allows individuals to get access to care quickly, when they need it most.”

At Boone County Jail, that need is clear.

“We’re seeing more individuals with serious mental health issues—not always tied to substance use,” said Sheriff Godzicki. “We have a responsibility to manage those behaviors, but also to take care of people. We have to get them help.”

Fast, Accessible Care—When It Matters Most

Through ITP’s telehealth model, inmates can be connected to licensed psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and therapists without ever leaving the facility.

The process is designed for speed and responsiveness:

• Initial screening during intake identifies behavioral health needs
• Appointments are typically available within 48 hours
• Same-day care is available for urgent or high-risk cases, including suicide risk
• 24/7 crisis access ensures support is always available

“We can get someone seen the same day if needed,” Wilson said. “That immediate access can make all the difference in a crisis.”

For jail staff, this responsiveness is critical.

“There are situations that are very raw and difficult to control,” Sheriff Godzicki noted. “Being able to quickly connect someone with a professional helps stabilize those moments.”

Improving Safety—for Everyone

Beyond access to care, telehealth significantly improves safety within correctional environments.

Transporting inmates in crisis can be unpredictable and dangerous. By delivering care remotely, jails reduce the need for off-site visits and limit high-risk transitions.

“It’s one of the most challenging situations we face,” said Godzicki. “Telehealth allows us to manage care safely within the jail.”

It also helps reduce reliance on more restrictive interventions, giving staff better tools to de-escalate situations and support individuals more effectively.

Supporting Continuity of Care—and Reducing Recidivism

One of the most important aspects of ITP’s model extends beyond the jail itself. Behavioral health care doesn’t end at release—and without continuity, individuals are at high risk of returning to the system.

ITP works closely with local partners to ensure a smoother transition:

• Coordinating with community-based providers
• Supporting medication access after release
• Offering follow-up care services
• Connecting individuals to ongoing outpatient treatment

“If we can stabilize someone and continue those services after release, that’s huge,” said Godzicki. “It saves taxpayer dollars and can reduce crime.”

Wilson echoed that focus: “Our goal is not just to treat someone in the moment—but to help them stay on a path toward stability.”

Addressing Workforce Shortages Through Innovation

Like many states, Iowa faces a shortage of behavioral health professionals—especially in rural areas. ITP’s telehealth model helps bridge that gap by bringing in licensed providers from across the state and beyond.

“We’re intentional about expanding access,” Wilson said. “Telehealth allows us to bring in specialists and ensure patients receive high-quality care, regardless of location.”

This approach enables correctional facilities—and even local hospitals—to tap into a broader network of expertise without being limited by geography.

A Collaborative Approach to Community Health

The success of programs like the one in Boone County depends on strong collaboration between multiple stakeholders:

• Law enforcement
• Jail administration
• Healthcare providers
• Community organizations

“It’s not in our best interest to let people fall through the cracks,” said Godzicki. “When we help individuals improve their lives, the entire community benefits.”

That philosophy is at the heart of ITP’s work. By combining technology, clinical expertise, and community partnerships, Integrated Telehealth Partners is helping redefine what behavioral health care can look like in correctional settings.

Changing Outcomes—One Life at a Time

For those working inside the system, the impact is tangible. Jail staff often see individuals at their lowest points—but they also see the progress.

“You run into people later in the community who are doing better,” said Godzicki. “They’ve worked through it, made better decisions, and are living healthier lives. That’s the rewarding part.”

These moments reflect a broader truth: when behavioral health is addressed effectively, outcomes improve, not just for individuals, but for entire communities.

Listen to the full interview at KWBG.com.