FedCURE has received an increased number of health-related complaints in the last six months. The following must be done before we can address any complaint:

1. FedCURE advises the family/friend that the prisoner needs to file a BP9, if he/she has not already done so, to start the Administrative Remedy Procedure.
2. FedCURE advises the family/friend that the prisoner needs to execute a durable power of attorney as soon as possible. FedCURE will only work with the appointee.
3. FedCURE advises the family/friend that the prisoner and appointee need to an sign FedCURE’s Waiver and Release of Liability Form acknowledging that the prisoner’s name and medical information will be made public through FedCURE’s website and its newsletter, as well as e-mail notification.
4. FedCURE advises the family/friend that the prisoner needs to requests BOP medical records including any specialists’ reports. FedCURE will also need any pre-prison medical records including any specialists’ reports as they relate to the prisoner’s medical condition.
5. FedCURE advises the family/friend that the prisoner needs to provide copies of all communications with any medical professional or BOP staff member where the prisoner’s medical condition has been addressed.
6. FedCURE advises the family/friend that the prisoner needs to provide copies of all Administrative actions taken to reconcile the medical complaint that has gone unheeded.
7. FedCURE advises the family/friend that they need to actively advocate on behalf of the prisoner. FedCURE works on a volunteer basis and as such, its staff and resources are limited.

The family/friend appointed by the prisoner can best help through the following way:

1. When communicating with the BOP or medical professionals, try to keep to the facts. Provide a timeline of events and cite BOP Program Statements as they apply.
2. When corresponding with the BOP, start by addressing the appropriate facility staff including the warden and medical personnel. If, and when, you need to address a higher authority, provide copies of prior correspondence. Your communications to specific BOP facilities are not typically forwarded to regional offices.
3. If you file a complaint with a medical organization, such as JCAHO, please be sure to provide a copy with future correspondence to the BOP.