Permanent supportive housing: assessing the evidence

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Mental Health Services Research
• Housing Policy

Background:

• Permanent supportive housing (PSH) is designed for individuals experiencing homelessness with mental and/or substance use disorders.
• This model aims to provide safe, stable housing combined with voluntary support services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the permanent supportive housing model.
• To review and synthesize existing research on PSH effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted, surveying multiple academic databases from 1995 to 2012.
• Studies were evaluated for levels of evidence (high, moderate, low) based on methodology and sample size.
• Evidence of service effectiveness was assessed.

Main Results:

• The overall level of evidence for PSH was graded as moderate.
• Research, including seven randomized controlled trials, indicated PSH reduces homelessness, increases housing tenure, and decreases emergency room visits and hospitalizations.
• Consumers reported higher satisfaction with PSH compared to other housing models, though methodological limitations were noted.

Conclusions:

• Moderate evidence suggests PSH is a promising intervention for target populations.
• Further research is recommended to refine the model and identify optimal components for specific subpopulations.
• Policymakers should consider PSH as a covered service for individuals with mental and substance use disorders, incorporating evaluation for evidence building.