Processes of social stigmatization and accessibility to the health system of people with problematic consumption

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The work presented here is a selected excerpt from the research project developed within the framework of the author’s doctoral thesis. Its objective was to analyze the problems of accessibility to the health system for people with problematic consumption. METHODS: The methodological strategy followed the basic dimensions of research in health policies, systems and services: approach to different levels of analysis and articulation between academia and health services. In-depth interviews were conducted with health professionals and people with problematic consumption under treatment in the city of Buenos Aires. RESULTS: The most significant finding of the users’ report was the intensification of the suffering experienced as a result of the processes of social stigmatization. The speeches of the professionals showed consensus about the idea that the health care system usually rejects people with problematic consumption. DISCUSSION: The main problem is not specifically related to the substances consumed, but to the accessibility to health services and multiple rights that are usually violated to the detriment of people with these problems. It is necessary to tackle these relevant issues to ensure a policy framework that respects human rights.