Research confirms that peer education reduces infectious disease transmission in high-risk populations, such as carceral settings. This session will explore how to implement a peer health education program by examining the Indiana Peer Education Program (INPEP), which currently operates in 10 correctional facilities. INPEP empowers incarcerated individuals to educate peers, encourage behavior change, and promote harm reduction. Participants will learn how this model strengthens skills, builds community, and fosters lasting positive change through peer-led initiatives.

Educational Objectives

• Explain the significance of peer health education in addressing critical health issues within incarcerated populations
• Review best practices for incorporating the lived experiences of incarcerated individuals to deliver peer-led education on evidence-based health information and harm reduction
• Discuss the broader implications of peer health education programs for individuals experiencing incarceration, their families, staff, and the community at large