What was the central issue in the case of Estelle versus Gamble?

The central issue in the case of Estelle v. Gamble revolved around inadequate medical treatment for an inmate’s serious medical needs, specifically a back injury. This landmark Supreme Court decision established that deliberate indifference to serious medical needs of prisoners constitutes a violation of the Eighth Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment.

In this case, the Supreme Court addressed the responsibility of prison officials to provide necessary medical care to inmates. The court ruled that when a prison official is aware of an inmate’s serious medical condition and fails to provide adequate treatment, it can lead to a violation of the inmate’s constitutional rights. This case set a significant precedent regarding the standard of care required in prisons, underscoring that inmates retain their right to appropriate medical treatment while incarcerated.