BETWEEN CLINICAL PRACTICE AND HUMANIZED CARE: EXPERIENCE REPORT IN A HEALTH ACTION FOR THE HOMELESS POPULATION

Abstract

The homeless population presents high social and health vulnerability, facing barriers to accessing healthcare services and requiring care strategies that prioritize welcoming, qualified listening, and humanized attention. In this context, extension and volunteer actions play a relevant role in health promotion and in the training of healthcare students. The objective of this study is to report the experience of a medical student during a volunteer action focused on providing healthcare to people experiencing homelessness. This is a descriptive study, in the form of an experience report, based on participation in the Christmas Action held on December 20, 2025, at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Campinas (SP), organized by social projects and volunteer healthcare professionals. During the activity, multiprofessional care was provided, including medical, dental, psychological, nursing, and veterinary assistance, in addition to the distribution of hygiene items, food, and clothing. The student participated in conducting the initial anamnesis, targeted physical examination, and case discussions with supervising physicians. Approximately six patients with different clinical conditions were assisted, including chronic diseases and acute conditions. The experience highlighted the importance of humanized care, qualified listening, and the strengthening of community actions. It is concluded that extension initiatives contribute both to the promotion of health among vulnerable populations and to the training of professionals who are more sensitive to social inequalities.