Clinical guideline for homeless and vulnerably housed people, and people with lived homelessness experience

Author/s: 
Pottie, K."
Date Added: 
March 10, 2020
Journal/Publication: 
Canadian Medical Association Journal
Publication Date: 
March 9, 2020
Issue: 
10
Volume: 
192
Pages: 
E240-E254
Type: 
Meta-analyses, Reviews, and Guidelines
Format: 
Article
DOI (1): 
https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.190777

RPR Commentary

This article summarizes what is known about how to provide primary care for homeless and vulnerably housed patients.  James W. Mold, MD, MPH

Abstract

KEY POINTS

  • Clinical assessment and care of homeless and vulnerably housed populations should include tailoring approaches to a person’s gender, age, Indigenous heritage, ethnicity and history of trauma; and advocacy for comprehensive primary health care.

  • As initial steps in the care of homeless and vulnerably housed populations, permanent supportive housing is strongly recommended, and income assistance is also recommended.

  • Case-management interventions, with access to psychiatric support, are recommended as an initial step to support primary care and to address existing mental health, substance use and other morbidities.

  • Harm-reduction interventions, such as supervised consumption facilities, and access to pharmacologic agents for opioid use disorder, such as opioid agonist treatment, are recommended for people who use substances.

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