The health care sector’s response to women impacted by abuse: barriers and strategies

Violence against women is established as a determinant of health with adverse health related consequences. A significant number of women in Canada each year are affected. Health care professionals are in a unique position to assist women impacted by violence. Unfortunately, these women experience numerous barriers to accessing appropriate health care. The findings from an environmental scan conducted at BC Women’s Hospital and Health Centre revealed various barriers for women affected by violence, both structurally and directly resulting from the abuse, that prevent them from accessing appropriate care. The study also revealed several strategies to reduce barriers and increase access to care for women affected by abuse.