Results of a Peer Navigator Program to Address Chronic Illness Among Persons Experiencing Homelessness

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Homeless populations face significant burdens from chronic diseases and barriers to preventive care.
• Distrust in healthcare systems can further exacerbate health disparities among those experiencing homelessness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an innovative model, the Collective Impact Project, aimed at boosting chronic disease screening and service referrals for homeless individuals.
• To assess the effectiveness of trained Peer Navigators (PNs) in engaging this population.

Main Methods:

• Embedded trained Peer Navigators (PNs) with lived experience in five agencies serving homeless or at-risk individuals.
• Tracked engagement, chronic disease screening, and referrals to healthcare and public health services over two years.

Main Results:

• Peer Navigators engaged 1071 individuals, with 823 screened for chronic diseases and 429 referred to healthcare services.
• The project highlighted the value of community stakeholder collaboration in identifying and addressing service gaps.

Conclusions:

• The Peer Navigator model effectively increased access to chronic disease screening and referrals for a vulnerable population.
• This approach demonstrates a viable strategy for reducing health inequities among people experiencing homelessness.