Homeless people: health aspects and experiences with health services

Abstract

Objectives: to analyze the understanding of homeless people living in a city in the countryside of São Paulo about what health is and about their experiences in health services. Methods: a qualitative exploratory study developed through interviews with homeless people and a field diary. The data were organized by themes and the findings were compared to a collective health framework. Results: the explored themes were: “Being healthy for the homeless population”, “The search for health services” and “Being a user of health services from the perspective of homeless people”. We present the interviewees’ understanding of health and their experiences in healthcare services. Along this path, we outline aspects that show the network’s weaknesses, permeated by prejudices and discrimination. Final Considerations: this population has conceptions about health and needs that need to be singularly taken into consideration to facilitate access and care.

Health inequalities among homeless adolescents

“…It is relevant to consider that poverty, among the several possible causes, does not allow individuals to meet their needs due to inequalities, as well as having a home to sleep, proper personal hygiene practices, food, and access to health. This context affects their physical, psychological, and social development (31)(32) and, consequently, can influence the continuity of adolescents on the streets, as reported in this study.…”

População em situação de rua: características sociodemográficas, trajetória e condições de saúde

“…Destaca-se que os participantes da pesquisa, predominantemente, eram usuários de centros de referência para a população em situação de rua. O acesso a esse serviço da assistência social auxilia na elaboração de projetos de vida, reintegração social e/ou familiar e realiza o direcionamento dessas pessoas a utilizarem os dispositivos sociais presentes dentro do território (PRADO MAR et al, 2021).…”

Desigualdades em saúde de adolescentes em situação de rua

“…Tal contexto afeta seu desenvolvimento físico, psicológico e social (31)(32) e, como consequência, pode influenciar a permanência dos adolescentes em situação de rua, como se mostra neste estudo.…”