Health and Medical Access Disparities

Homelessness and Health

April 4-10th is National Public Health Week for more information visit: https://nphw.org/

Homelessness is a Public Health issue in America. As of 2020, there were 580,466 individuals facing homelessness, and 3,173 of those were from Louisiana. Though there are many contributing factors to homelessness, it is crucial to understand the large scale impact of health and access to health care. 

When comparing the unhoused versus housed populations, the homeless population has proportionately higher rates of chronic illness such as diabetes, hypertension and HIV. For example, the general U.S population of diabetes is 9%, and that of the homeless population is 18%. 

The population of those facing homelessness have higher rates of behavioral illnesses too. In comparison to the general public, the rates of depression and substance use disorders are extremely high. For depression specifically, it is reported that 47% of homeless women meet the criteria for a diagnosis of a major depressive disorder, which is twice the rate of the general female population.

Lastly, there are increased infectious disease rates, primarily sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDs. Other infectious disease spread includes influenza and tuberculosis. 

The high rates of infectious and chronic illnesses is due in part to a lack of proper medical care and insurance. Also, those who have insurance are most likely on Medicaid or Medicare, which in many cases are unable to address a patient’s needs adequately. Significant rates of illness in those facing homelessness result in extensive emergency services. Though emergency department care is more adequate than no care, it is not suitable for all individuals’ needs, and it is also very costly.

COVID-19 has also had a profound impact on the health of the homeless community. Most importantly, it is increasingly difficult for people to adhere to social distancing and quarantine guidelines. Also, there is a higher risk for complications with widespread pre-existing conditions. Researchers in Los Angeles report that COVID-19 patients facing homelessness were 50% more likely to die due to the virus. 

To address homelessness in America and our community, understanding the needs of those affected is essential. Reflected in the significant rates of illness among our populations, adequate healthcare is a critical need of those facing homelessness.