This research brief presents findings from an exploratory study of the health care needs and experiences of seriously ill prisoners returning to Cincinnati, Ohio. In 2004, Urban Institute researchers interviewed 81 male prisoners with serious mental or physical health problems as they prepared for release. After their release, respondents participated in focus groups about their experiences with health care and other services in the community. Focus groups were also conducted with health care and social service providers serving former prisoners. Former prisoners with serious physical or mental health problems and health care and social service providers agreed that a seamless transition from care inside the prison walls to care on the outside must take place if released prisoners are to be successful in their return to the community. [View the corresponding press release]