Health service utilization and victimization among incarcerated female substance users

Women represent the fastest growing population of prison inmates, which has increased dramatically in the past decade. Generally, women use more health services than men but with limited access to health care, incarcerated women tend to experience multiple problems, including problems with drugs, alcohol, and victimization. The purpose of this exploratory qualitative study was to identify specific factors related to health, mental health, drug use, and violence among incarcerated female substance users. Perspectives from 34 females who participated in focus groups in prison are discussed. Key findings indicate that drug use, victimization, and living in a rural area were barriers to accessing health services. In addition, implications for interventions targeting women are presented.