Prison as a Space to Heal: Women Federal Prisoners in Canada and the Role of the Healthcare Professional

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Sapir Fellus

Résumé

Women incarcerated in federal prisons are a small but growing proportion of Canada’s penal institutions and have needs, challenges, and health issues vastly different from those of incarcerated men. Women that come into conflict with the law often have experienced sexual abuse, utilize drugs and alcohol, and have poor health. Healthcare professionals in prison should be aware of these health markers and the associated difficulties of treating patients in prison. This article aims to catalyze conversation and further inquiry into the potential role of the carceral reality as a healing space, and the health professionals within it as healers.

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