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With higher levels of exposure to the elements (sleeping rough on the streets or spending prolonged periods of time in extreme outdoor temperatures), those experiencing homelessness are at greater risk of chronic health problems. Furthermore, approximately 20% are severely mentally ill, while 17% are faced with a chronic substance abuse challenge.13 Some health organizations exist to specifically serve the unique needs of this population, such as Boston’s Healthcare for the Homeless program. In other cities, an emerging model emphasizes bringing healthcare to those experiencing homelessness where they are, using mobile medical units or traveling doctors and nurses. Even if you are not a healthcare professional, you can equip yourself with knowledge of common healthcare conditions of those experiencing homelessness (and subsequent warning signs), as well as knowledge of healthcare assistance resources to direct them to.

EXAMPLES

DESIGN PROGRAM POLICY
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MyMove Guide to Homelessness During the Pandemic: What to Do and How to Help

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Prevention Point Needle Exchange Philadelphia, PA

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Nurses Come to the Homeless through Street Medicine Program New York, New York

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Street Medicine New Orleans New Orleans, LA

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Healthcare for the Homeless in Boston Boston, MA

With higher levels of exposure to the elements (sleeping rough on the streets or spending prolonged periods of time in extreme outdoor temperatures), the homeless are at greater risk of chronic health problems. Furthermore, approximately 20% of the homeless are severely mentally ill, while 17% are faced with a chronic substance abuse challenge.13 Some health organizations exist to specifically serve the unique needs of this population, such as Boston’s Healthcare for the Homeless program. In other cities, an emerging model emphasizes bringing healthcare to the homeless where they are, using mobile medical units or traveling doctors and nurses. Even if you are not a healthcare professional, you can equip yourself with knowledge of common healthcare conditions of the homeless (and subsequent warning signs), as well as knowledge of healthcare assistance resources to direct the homeless to.