Relatively little attention has been paid to the medical problems and needs of the homeless. In this study, we examined the self-reported rates of medical problems in a sample of 5,700 homeless clients with severe mental illnes participating in the ACCESS project, as well as one-year health and community adjustment outcomes associated with changes in self-perceived health status. At baseline, almost one-fifth of the sample (18 percent) described their health as poor. The most frequently reported health problems at baseline were dental problems (49 percent), arthritis (34 percent), chest infection (34 percent), and physical limtations (31 percent). After controlling for baseline demographic and illness characteristics, improved self-perceived health status was associated with improvements in mental health, substance abuse, employment, and quality of life. Further analyses will consider the impact of service use on health outcomes.
Learning Objectives: 1. What are the one-year health and community adjustment outcomes associated with improvements in perceived health status? 2. What factors predict service use, and what is the relationship between service use and health outcomes?
Keywords: Medical Mental Illness, Homeless
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.