Objective: To determine whether fitness-to-stand-trial assessments "in detention" offer cost benefit over inpatient assessments.
Method: The development of a pilot "fitness clinic" in a detention centre is described, and the results of 1 year of assessments are presented. The cost benefit of fitness assessments conducted in detention centres is outlined.
Results: Significant cost savings were realized by operating fitness clinics in detention centres.
Conclusion: Fitness clinics in detention centres offer important benefits and are recommended as an adjunct to forensic programs.