HEALTHCARE ACCESS IN PRISON: ASSESSING MEDICAL TRANSFER POLICIES AND THE RIGHT TO HEALTH OF WOMEN PDLs
Christian Gilbuena Ungui
Graduate School, Philippine College of Criminology, Manila, Philippines
Abstract
This study titled “Healthcare Access in Prison: Assessing Medical Transfer Policies and the Right to Health of Women PDLs,” explores the lived experiences and aspirations of women Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) and Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) personnel regarding healthcare access and medical transfer processes within the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW). Guided by the Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA) and Social Justice Theory, and using a qualitative method, the study upholds that the right to health is a universal entitlement, even within incarceration.
Through Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and thematic analysis, findings revealed that while efforts exist to provide healthcare, women PDLs experience delays in hospital transfers, limited medical supplies, insufficient staff, and privacy concerns. BuCor personnel acknowledged challenges in balancing their security functions with compassionate care, emphasizing the need for improved coordination and logistical support.
The study concludes that systemic reform is vital to ensure equitable, dignified, and gender-responsive healthcare. It recommends integrating modern health systems, digital monitoring tools, and rights-based medical protocols to promote humane treatment and uphold the inherent dignity of women PDLs under the HRBA framework.
Keywords: Women PDLs, Healthcare Access, Human Rights-Based Approach, Social Justice, Medical Transfers
Journal Name :
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EPRA International Journal of Research & Development (IJRD)
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Published on : 2026-02-03
| Vol | : | 11 |
| Issue | : | 1 |
| Month | : | January |
| Year | : | 2026 |