Inmates at the Lexington County Detention Center have access to health care and supervised electronic communication.

During a recent Lexington County Council meeting, council members discussed a proposed $6,944,409 contract with MUSC to provide inmate health care during the next fiscal year.

According to Capt. Adam Myrick, public information officer for the Lexington County Sheriff's Department, the county contracts health care services for inmates and has established procedures for those needing medical care while in detention.

“The inmate health care services contractor provides access to medical care for all people in our custody,” Myrick said. “Health care services include medical screenings during the intake process, routine and chronic care, mental health services, medication management, emergency care and access to outside medical providers or hospitals when necessary. Individuals housed at the detention center may request medical attention at any time.

“Requests are reviewed by qualified medical personnel, who assess the inmate’s condition and determine the appropriate course of treatment. Emergency medical concerns are addressed immediately. The sheriff’s department contracts with a professional detention health care provider to deliver these services and ensure inmates have access to necessary medical care while in custody.”

Inmates also have access to monitored communication technology while serving time.

According to Myrick, personal cellphones and electronic devices are prohibited and considered contraband within the detention center.

“The detention center provides access to secure communication technology through approved vendors,” Myrick said. “Depending on housing assignment and facility policies, inmates may have access to institution-issued tablets that allow them to communicate with family members, access approved content and use certain educational or informational resources. These devices are owned and managed by the service provider and are subject to monitoring, security controls and facility regulations.”

While inmates have access to communication devices such as tablets, the devices are provided through a specialized vendor contracted by the detention center. According to Myrick, costs associated with communication services, media content and other optional features vary by vendor and service type.

The sheriff’s department does not sell personal electronic devices to inmates.

“Access to appropriate medical care and secure communication services is important when operating a modern detention facility,” Myrick said. “Individuals housed at the detention center remain in the county’s custody and care. Providing access to necessary medical treatment helps protect inmate health and safety while meeting legal and constitutional obligations.

“Likewise, secure communication services can help inmates maintain family connections, communicate with legal counsel and access approved resources while ensuring the safety and security of the facility. These services are provided within a controlled environment that balances operational security, inmate welfare and public accountability.”