Health problems of the homeless in America

This article outlines current knowledge of the health problems of the homeless, describes the experience of a primary health care clinic for the homeless and discusses interventions that primary care providers can take to improve the health of the homeless population. Homelessness in America has become a major political and social issue during this decade. The homeless population is subject to greater health problems than the general population. Primary care providers are well-suited to act as advocates for homeless people wherever they are served. An awareness of this population's special health issues is necessary for the provision of quality health care.