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Appropriate and acceptable health checks can help improve outcomes for people experiencing homelessness
A new study shows that appropriate and acceptable health checks for people experiencing homelessness can help reduce long-term physical and psychological distress. Regular health assessment tools measuring health and wellbeing have been tested by experts from Flinders University and the University of Adelaide on a group of 53 South Australians experiencing homelessness. The findings help highlight health care priorities, including preventative measures, for this vulnerable group, says their study in BMC Public Health. There are few health assessment tools designed for people experiencing homelessness. We have…
Appropriate and acceptable health checks can help improve outcomes for people experiencing homelessness
A new study shows that appropriate and acceptable health checks for people experiencing homelessness can help reduce long-term physical and psychological distress.
Regular health assessment tools measuring health and wellbeing have been tested by experts from Flinders University and the University of Adelaide on a group of 53 South Australians experiencing homelessness.
The findings help highlight health care priorities, including preventative measures, for this vulnerable group, says their study in BMC Public Health.
There are few health assessment tools designed for people experiencing homelessness. We conducted the study to understand what would help them feel comfortable receiving health support. These methods determined which tools and assessments were most appropriate and acceptable in their circumstances. In general, the assessments were accepted, but there was a waiver of consent and there were some obstacles in completing questionnaires on stress, sleep and cognition, as well as in completing oral examinations and balance and walking tests. It was clear that developing trust and maintaining control through informed consent were essential to wider adoption of these methods.”
Professor Gordon, Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University.
The study, supported by First Nations-led organization Common Ground, provides new information for service providers to reach people experiencing homelessness who may not be inclined or able to regularly seek advice or diagnosis for new or chronic health problems.
Nicky Baker, co-author of the paper, says it is important to minimize the burden on participants. Data collected from health assessments can go further by informing and improving health services and policies.
“Understanding the health and social needs of vulnerable people experiencing homelessness is crucial to inform evidence-based policy,” she says.
Source:
Reference:
Gordon, S.J., et al. (2022) Appropriate and acceptable health assessments for people experiencing homelessness. BMC Public Health. doi.org/10.1186/s12889-022-13723-7.
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