An analysis of the current situation of the health service in the Maranhao State Penitentiary Complex showed that 25.6% of the services were not in line with the guidelines recommended by the Ministry of Health/ ANVISA/ Brazil, which demonstrates the low quality of health care for individuals deprived of their liberty, as well as the need to improve the state's public health policy. This study highlights and offers the opportunity to intervene in the variables analysed that need attention from state managers, thus bringing the House of Correction closer to the precepts of dignity and health inherent to Brazilian citizens.