Recent im/migration to Canada linked to unmet health needs among sex workers in Vancouver, Canada: Findings of a longitudinal study

Health Care Women Int. 2017 May;38(5):492-506. doi: 10.1080/07399332.2017.1296842. Epub 2017 Mar 16.

Abstract

Despite universal health care in Canada, sex workers (SWs) and im/migrants experience suboptimal health care access. In this analysis, we examined the correlates of unmet health needs among SWs in Metro Vancouver over time. Data from a longitudinal cohort of women SWs (An Evaluation of Sex Workers Health Access [AESHA]) were used. Of 742 SWs, 25.5% reported unmet health needs at least once over the 4-year study period. In multivariable logistic regression using generalized estimating equations, recent im/migration had the strongest impact on unmet health needs; long-term im/migration, policing, and trauma were also important determinants. Legal and social supports to promote im/migrant SWs' access to health care are recommended.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Canada
  • Emigrants and Immigrants / psychology*
  • Emigrants and Immigrants / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Health Services Accessibility / statistics & numerical data*
  • Health Services Needs and Demand*
  • Healthcare Disparities
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Needs Assessment*
  • Occupational Health
  • Sex Workers / psychology
  • Sex Workers / statistics & numerical data*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Transients and Migrants / psychology*
  • Transients and Migrants / statistics & numerical data
  • Urban Population