Healthcare utilization and preventive care among social housing residents compared to the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario, Canada: a population-based cohort study

Disparities in healthcare utilization and preventive care between social housing residents and the complement cohort persisted or widened during the COVID-19 pandemic, most notably for influenza vaccination and colorectal cancer screening. Narrowing of some screening disparities was primarily attributed to overall declines in screening rates rather than improved access. These findings emphasize the need for targeted, equity-focused public health strategies to improve access to preventive healthcare services for socially and economically disadvantaged populations.