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Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Restricted Project: Campus only access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Health Services Administration

Department

Health Science and Human Ecology

First Reader/Committee Chair

Okpala, Paulchris

Abstract

Formerly incarcerated individuals face significant barriers when attempting to access mental health services. Research shows that there is a correlation between incarceration and untreated health disorders that influence high recidivism rates, unemployment, broken families, and increased levels of homelessness. In response to these ongoing challenges, I developed a program model to address health and wellness access for justice-impacted adults, called ThinkUP! .This proposed initiative was designed with the intention to address these gaps by increasing access to mental health screenings, care coordination, and supportive services for adults recently released from incarceration in Riverside, Moreno Valley, and San Bernardino. ThinkUP! seeks to incorporate technology to promote preventive care through timely, culturally appropriate engagement. The program proposes HIPAA-compliant text message reminders, personalized care navigation, and workforce integration to engage participants and improve follow-through with treatment.

Key projected goals of this proposed program include ensuring that at least 75% of participants complete behavioral health screenings within 30 days of enrollment and achieving 70% adherence to therapy or psychiatric care over a two-year period. Additional anticipated outcomes include reducing missed appointments by 50% through timely reminders and navigator support. Proposed evaluation methods would include electronic health records, and administrative data to monitor screening completion, clinical service utilization, appointment adherence, and connection to long-term providers.

Within this paper, I will outline the strategic development of the ThinkUP! concept, describe how it should be implemented, and analyze projected outcomes by utilizing secondary data and observational reasoning, while concluding with recommendations for improving accessibility of mental health services post-incarceration. As upcoming administrators, we hold the social responsibility to bridge empty gaps within both systems, which when unaddressed leads to substance abuse, chronic health issues, and mental health crises such as PTSD or suicide which are deeply rooted and prevalent among those who are untreated or unwell upon return home. ThinkUP! represents one potential pathway towards a more equitable and responsive support system.

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