The advantages and challenges of being a Correctional Physician
Stimulating Pathology
Dr. Mary Morehouse, Medical Director at Moberly Correctional Center in Moberly, Missouri says she particularly enjoys the stimulating pathology a correctional physician sees.
"Many of the inmate patients we have didn't seek medical care prior to coming here, so their healthcare needs have been neglected," said Morehouse. "I see a lot of cases you normally don't see in private practice in terms of conditions that have gone untreated and even unusual cases, like a patient with lung cancer in his 20s or another one about the same age with a carotid tumor. It keeps you on your toes, but it's exciting, challenging work."
Security a Top Priority
Morehouse says initially she was a little intimidated at the prospect of working in corrections, but says she soon realized that it's not what you may think.
"Working as a correctional physician here is nothing like what I thought it would be," said Morehouse. "It seemed a little daunting at first because I was worried about what it was going to be like working in a prison, but once I got here, I saw that patients here are just like everywhere else. Some are very sick and are appreciative of your help. I don't worry about the security like I first thought I would. Sure, you have your challenging patients like anywhere else, but I'm never alone here and the security staff is always around. Use your common sense and it's fine."
For more information on current physician opportunities with CMS, contact our Physician Recruiting Department .