Healthcare for the Poor and Homeless Population
The poor and the homeless constitute a vulnerable part of the population. The vulnerability and low social-economic status arise from the inability to access basic resources such as shelter, food, and above all, healthcare. This is caused by social and economic factors such as unstable employment, deterioration of mental related illnesses, meager wages, low education levels, escape from domestic violence, alcohol, and drug abuse, just to name a few. Poverty and homelessness affect men, women, children, disabled people of all races, and ethnicities. While homelessness is temporary for some of these people, for others, it may last for months to a couple of years.
In the united states, for every three million people, 1% of the total population is considered homeless each year. When seeking healthcare, this group of people often turn to healthcare centers designed for poor people in the society with homes.Health care professionals in such facilities should be aware of health issues associated with the homeless, which are different from ordinary patients in order to provide effective services.
Below are some of the health problems associated with the poor and homeless
Mental illnesses and substance abuse
In every ten homeless people, at least two suffer from a mental illness, while 3-5 suffer from both mental illness and substance abuse problems. Most of these homeless individuals also suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic schizophrenia. Proper screening for alcohol and other drugs should be done, and treatment administered based on the findings. The healthcare should also try to find a stable housing backed up with therapy and other supportive services to help the patient recover.
Injuries from Violence
Homeless people often encounter violence, rape, and physical assault because they are always suffering from anxiety, depression, and related mental illness that are often the root cause of violence. Some of them may express fear of death either from real or imaginary threats. Girls and women are most likely to suffer from sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies, while post-traumatic stress is common in younger children. The older population is more susceptible to injuries because they are weaker and cannot defend themselves. Physicians should develop an appropriate treatment plan that should promote healing.
Nutrition-related illnesses
Homeless people have little access to food, let alone balanced diet meals. They are, therefore, more likely to be suffering from nutrition-related diseases such as uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension. Health care professionals should work closely with them and in liaison with management to ensure that such individuals receive a healthy diet and an appropriate treatment plan.

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