Justification. Homeless service providers sought to gain additional information to assist with strategic planning and resource allocation.
Objectives. The present study assessed demographics, health status, quality of life and needs of the homeless.
Methods. Face to face interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of 630 homeless persons in Nashville, TN at homeless service delivery sites and informal sites (e.g. campsites, parks) during the spring of 1998.
Results. Major needs included affordable housing, employment and health care access. One third of the homeless were employed full or part time, however, relied on emergency shelter. Of the unemployed, over one quarter expressed a desire for education, or assistance in seeking employment. The employed reported fewer health problems and greater social support compared to the unemployed.
Forty percent of the sample reported having a chronic health problem (e.g. alcohol and/or drug problem, psychiatric, hypertension, asthma), however only 30% of the sample had health care coverage. A greater percentage of Blacks had no health care coverage and a greater percentage of Blacks reported alcohol and drugs as being the primary reason for their homelessness.
Myths were addressed, such as homeless persons originate from "somewhere else" and are "in and out" of homelessness. The majority (60%) of the homeless reported their last place of residence to be Nashville. And 60% reported the current episode of homelessness to be their first time homeless.
Significance. Results provide information that can be used by service providers and policy makers in addressing the needs of the homeless.
Learning Objectives: 1. List the major needs of homeless person 2. Identify disparities in health status of homeless persons 3. Identify potential myths of homeless persons
Keywords: Homelessness, Health Care Access
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.