Why Johns Hopkins hires ex-criminal offenders

Alyssa Rege -

With a prison record and inconsistent work history, William Glover-Bey, 61, had a tough time finding a steady job to provide a stable environment for his five children. However, he learned of Baltimore-based Johns Hopkins Health System's on-the-job adult internship training program in 2015 and proceeded to turn his life around, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Johns Hopkins is one of a number of healthcare institutions placing more of an emphasis on the fundamental needs of patients, like housing, employment, transportation and proper food. Research suggests addressing the social and environmental factors surrounding a patient's care may improve the health and well-being of traditionally underserved patients while cutting costs substantially, the report states.

While many employers may reject applicants like Mr. Glover-Bey, Johns Hopkins has reportedly welcomed "hundreds" of ex-offenders, the report states. Officials reportedly consider the circumstances surrounding an individual's conviction, such as age at the time of the crime, attempts at rehabilitation and duties inherent to the role, before making an offer.

The system also partners with community organizations that train job seekers and help them with basic job-finding skills like interviewing. Johns Hopkins officials told U.S. News that its most recent studies of ex-offenders in its workforce found those individuals had the same turnover rate as those with no record during the first 30 months of employment.

"If you do not have household income, you can't go to the doctor and pay your copay, join a gym or buy healthy produce," Redonda Miller, MD, president of The Johns Hopkins Hospital, told the publication.

To access the full report, click here.

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