Homelessness: An Unhealthy State. Health status, risk behaviours and service utilisation among homeless people in two Irish cities

The link between homelessness and poor health is well established. Homeless people have much worse physical health than the general population and are much more likely than the general population to suffer mental health conditions. A review of the literature demonstrates higher mortality and health risk taking behaviour among home- less populations compared to housed populations. Improving the health status and service usage of homeless people may lead to a reduction in their excessive suffering and may also help them to exit homelessness. Improvements in this area may also lead to a reduction in costs to the health services. A cross-sectional survey of homeless people in Dublin and Limerick cities was carried out during the second two weeks of September 2013. Almost the entire sample had either a diagnosed mental or physical health problem with the majority receiving treatment for ill health. The findings from this study also show an increase in medical card coverage. Overall, the health needs of the homeless are great and though much has been done already to improve access and care, much more can be done, particularly in the area of mental health and addiction. Ultimately though, a move from the homeless situation will improve health and wellbeing.

Publication Date: 
2015
Location: 
Ireland