Correctional inmates and ex-offenders are disproportionately burdened by medical and mental health problems. This article reviews the state of programs and research in five health-related issues important to these inmates' successful transition to the community: discharge planning, community linkages and continuity of care; adherence to treatment regimens; availability of housing; quick access to benefit programs; and the particular needs of dually and triply diagnosed individuals. In general, according to this article, such services are currently inadequate, although there are exemplary programs and promising strategies in some of these realms. Collaborative efforts bringing together correctional systems, public health departments, and community-based organizations and other community providers are especially promising and important. The article recommends additional research to evaluate currently available programs and encourage their replication and enhancement and to broaden collaboration. Cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness studies may be particularly important tools for "selling" programs targeting a population that has little or no political constituency and even less public sympathy. Table, references