Use of the Health Care for the Homeless Program Services and Other Health Care Services by Homeless Adults

Abstract

This study examined factors associated with the use of the Health Care for the Homeless Program and other health care services by homeless adults. A total of 941 homeless adults were identified in 52 soup kitchens in U.S. communities. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were applied. Among homeless adults, having dental problems was the most robust factor associated with their use of Health Care for the Homeless Program services (odds ratio [OR] = 2.50, 95 percent confidence interval [CI] = 1.44-4.32). Among homeless adults who did not visit Health Care for the Homeless Program services during last six months, the number of emergency room visits was the most powerful factor associated with their use of other health care services (OR = 1.15, 95 percent CI = 1.05-1.26). The results of the study can help health care providers better serve homeless adults to meet their health needs.

Dental health of homeless adults in Toronto, Canada

“…Homelessness remains a serious social problem, reflecting a diversity of personal and social challenges, typically involving the experience of poor oral health (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6). The lack of a permanent residence, motivation, health insurance, and money makes this population very vulnerable, with significantly limited access to health care (2,6). The level of social exclusion, combined with the nomadic lifestyle of homeless individuals affects their understanding of health care services and the availability of such services.…”

“…The level of social exclusion, combined with the nomadic lifestyle of homeless individuals affects their understanding of health care services and the availability of such services. They face many barriers to care, such as a lack of trust and unrealistic expectations of health professionals and a lack of coordinated policy and service efforts aimed at meeting their needs (6)(7)(8)(9).…”