Changing attitudes toward homeless people

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Primary care physicians play a crucial role in addressing the health needs of vulnerable populations.
• Homelessness presents unique healthcare challenges and is often linked to societal factors.
• Understanding and improving healthcare providers' attitudes towards homeless individuals is essential for effective care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of a mandatory 2-week homeless health care rotation on primary care residents' attitudes.
• To assess changes in residents' perceptions regarding the causes of homelessness and their comfort levels with homeless patients.

Main Methods:

• A pre- and post-rotation assessment of primary care residents' attitudes using the Attitudes Toward Homelessness Inventory (ATHI).
• The ATHI, previously validated in undergraduate students, was administered to measure attitude changes.
• An anonymous survey was used to gauge residents' interest in future volunteer work with homeless populations.

Main Results:

• Attitudes Toward Homelessness Inventory (ATHI) scores significantly improved from 46 to 52 (P =.001) after the rotation.
• Post-rotation, residents demonstrated a stronger belief in the societal causes of homelessness.
• Residents reported increased comfort in affiliating with homeless individuals and a greater interest in volunteering.

Conclusions:

• A short, required rotation in homeless health care can positively impact primary care residents' attitudes.
• Educational interventions can foster a more nuanced understanding of homelessness and increase empathy among future physicians.
• Such rotations may encourage healthcare professionals to engage more with underserved homeless populations.