ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES BY HOMELESS WOMEN: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze, through an integrative literature review, access to health services for women experiencing homelessness in Brazil, with emphasis on the main barriers faced and strategies to expand care. The methodology consisted of selecting and analyzing scientific studies available in national and international databases, based on previously defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results showed that access for these women is limited by social determinants such as poverty, broken family ties, lack of documentation, and weaknesses in the organization of health services. In addition, gender-related issues, such as violence and neglect in sexual and reproductive health care, further aggravate this situation. The presence of stigma and discrimination by professionals and institutions was also observed, hindering access and continuity of care. It is concluded that access to health services for women experiencing homelessness remains restricted, highlighting the need to strengthen public policies, improve professional training, and expand intersectoral strategies in order to promote more equitable, comprehensive, and humanized care.