Use of a mobile health van by a vulnerable population: homeless sheltered women

Little is known about the health status of homeless women. In this study, we examined the health problems of and services provided to sheltered, homeless, Midwestern women who used a mobile health van. Our objectives were to document these women's ages, self-reported past medical histories, self-reported histories of addictions and hospitalizations, presenting concerns, diagnoses, and visit patterns. To this end, we performed a retrospective review of the 689 records of 408 women who had sought care during a 3-year period. The data were divided into three groups, representing women ages 15-25 (n = 111), 26-40 (n = 211), and 41-70 (n = 86). In all three age groups, respiratory disorders were most frequently treated. Preventive health maintenance concerns were also major concerns of all age groups. Recommendations for improving the quality, continuity, and follow-up of care are offered.