Recorded presentation

Barbara Kroll, Gebal Gmbh Bielefeld Germany, Melanchthonstr.69, Bielefeld, 33615, Germany, 004952166301, Barbara.kroll@bitel.net

This project, called “STREETMED” was founded in 1996 in a northern city in Germany. The purpose was to provide medical care to homeless people in homeless shelters and on the streets by way of a mobile health unit staffed with a physician and other health personnel. Care is provided to about 1000 of the 300,000 city inhabitants. Many in this population would not receive medical care otherwise. Over 80% of this population has a drug abuse problem in addition to other medical problems. Data to be presented has been collected over 7 years. This study discusses the medical and psychiatric condition of patients, and the medical care provided for different conditions. Part of this treatment is the use of herbs, when appropriate. Herbs used for various conditions will be presented and their efficacy and value as a supplement to medical care will be discussed.

Learning Objectives: Objectives

At the end of the presentation the participants will be able to
• Describe medical care delivered to the homeless on a mobile unit in one city in Germany
  • Discuss the characteristics and location of the homeless population receiving care
    • Evaluate the medical and psychiatric conditions seen and medical care provided
      • Analyze the use of herbs as part of medical care.

      Keywords: Homeless Health Care, Herbal Medicine

      Presenting author's disclosure statement:
      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.

      Recorded presentation

      Health Issues and Models in International Homeless Populations

      The 132nd Annual Meeting (November 6-10, 2004) of APHA