Ohio Correctional Officer Practice Exam

What is considered a deliberate indifference to medical needs according to Estelle vs. Gamble (1976)?

1. Providing timely medical attention

2. Refusing medical care or intentionally delaying treatment

3. Offering alternative treatments

4. Documenting patient requests for care

The correct answer is: Refusing medical care or intentionally delaying treatment

Deliberate indifference to medical needs, as established by the Supreme Court in Estelle v. Gamble, refers to a situation where prison officials are aware of a serious medical need but fail to take appropriate action, either by refusing care outright or by intentionally delaying necessary treatment. This case emphasized that neglecting an inmate's medical needs, especially when it involves serious conditions, constitutes a violation of the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. In this context, the answer indicating refusal of medical care or intentional delay accurately captures the essence of deliberate indifference. It highlights the culpability of prison officials when they are aware of the medical needs and choose to act in a way that exacerbates suffering or ignores serious health threats. Providing timely medical attention, offering alternative treatments, or documenting requests for care, while important in the context of medical care, do not align with the definition of deliberate indifference as they demonstrate appropriate responses to medical needs rather than neglect or refusal.