In 1974, medical and health care services became a separate branch with an administrative structure similar to other branches in the Correctional Service of Canada. Shortly thereafter, national headquarters and regional offices were staffed with medical and nursing personnel. Although the scope of health services was increased, institutional hospitals are primarily restricted to outpatient service with the capability of providing some inpatient care. The new organizational structure, administratively staffed with experienced medical and nursing professionals, provides a basic framework for a new communications network. Personnel in the institutional hospitals now have access to medical and nursing expertise, and the administrative personnel at the regional and national offices offer suggestions and assistance to improve the quality and quantity of service. At each institution, ideas are freely exchanged at regular meetings of medical staff. Regionally, regular meetings involve the participation of regional nurses and the senior nurses from institutions, and the regional doctor holds meetings with institutional physicians. Structures also exist within institutions to facilitate communication between health care staff and inmates, while extensive communication also exists between institutional health care personnel and the medical and nursing staffs of community hospitals. The multiple communication channels make possible a comprehensive and integrated correctional health care program.