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A collaborative community approach to homeless care
J D Plumb1, P McManus, L Carson
1Department of Family Medicine, Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Primary Care
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Homelessness in the US is a growing public health crisis. Current healthcare approaches are insufficient for the complex needs of the homeless population, necessitating a collaborative community strategy.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Social Sciences
- Health Policy
Background:
- Homelessness is a significant and escalating social, economic, and public health issue in the United States.
- Existing healthcare delivery methods for homeless individuals have proven inadequate due to the multifaceted challenges they face.
- Understanding the scope of homelessness and the health status of those affected is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define homelessness and characterize the homeless population.
- To describe the health status and specific healthcare needs of homeless individuals.
- To explore and advocate for a collaborative community-based approach to homeless healthcare.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on homelessness definitions and demographics.
- Analysis of public health data concerning the health status of homeless populations.
- Conceptual framework development for community-integrated healthcare models.
Main Results:
- The definition of homelessness and its prevalence require clear articulation.
- Homeless individuals present complex health issues, often exacerbated by socioeconomic factors.
- Current healthcare systems struggle to adequately address the unique barriers faced by this population.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive, collaborative community approach is essential for effective homeless healthcare.
- Integrating services and addressing social determinants of health are key.
- Further research and policy development are needed to support this integrated model.