The Centre County Correctional Facility’s (CCCF) administration team have and will be providing guidance, information, and updates to correctional staff and returning citizens throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

On March 13, 2020, in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, the CCCF began to implement Pandemic Protocols for COVID-19, including, but not limited to, increased disinfection sweeps, a no visitation policy, suspension of work release programs, and adherence to strict screening protocols for staff and incarcerated individuals.  Routine temperature checks and universal masking are in place. 

Medical staff and health administrators are on the premises at all times to assist in the monitoring of this health crisis as well as any other health-related issues. The CCCF’s in-house medical services vendor is PrimeCare Medical. The CCCF has COVID-19 tests in-house for any person that is exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms. Per procedures and protocols adopted in consultation with PrimeCare Medical and the Prison Board of Inspectors, medical staff promptly evaluates any symptoms and isolation would occur if appropriate.

In addition to the CDC, the CCCF follows the guidance of and is in frequent contact with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, Pennsylvania Department of Health, Federal Bureau of Prisons, National Institute of Corrections, American Jail Association, American Correctional Association, and other county correctional facilities across the Commonwealth. 

Moreover, the CCCF is collaborating with the Courts, District Attorney, Public Defender, and Probation to identify returning citizens who are most vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19 but, if released early, do not pose a public safety risk. It is a balance of justice and safety for our community.

The CCCF has set precautions and protocols for staff and returning citizens if they have to go to doctor appointments or the Emergency Department at Mount Nittany Medical Center.

Any questions related to the CCCF’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic can be directed to Warden Schell at caschell@centrecountypa.gov.  

Updated April 30, 2020