Barriers and facilitators to health care access for people experiencing homelessness in four European countries: an exploratory qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

People experiencing homelessness (PEH) are known to be at higher risk of adverse health outcomes and premature mortality when compared to the housed population and often face significant barriers when attempting to access health services. This study aimed to better understand the specific health care needs of PEH and the barriers and facilitators associated with their timely and equitable access to health services in the European context.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory cross-national qualitative study involving people with lived experience of homelessness and health and social care professionals in Austria, Greece, Spain, and the UK. A total of 69 semi-structured interviews comprising 15 social care professionals, 19 health care professionals, and 35 PEH were

SUBMITTER: Carmichael C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10559410 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature