Articles for the Topic "Homeless Populations"

Effective Interventions for Underserved Populations

2007-08-01T04:05:04

This issue of Focal Point examines interventions for underserved populations.

Health Care Access: Programs for Underserved Populations Could Be Improved

2007-11-27T05:43:01

We are pleased to be here today as you discuss federal safety-net programs intended to improve access to medically underserved populations. As you know, many Americans face barriers to obtaining primary health care. These Americans may live in isolated rural areas or inner-city neighborhoods and lack access to health services or a sufficient number of health care providers. In addition, an increasing number of people lack health insurance. Research shows that people in these situations use less care, often forego seeking care when ill, or travel long distances to get care. (Author)

HRSA: The Health Center Program: Special Populations

2008-07-10T09:25:14

This website provides information about various HRSA Health Center programs.

Special Populations of Homeless Americans

2007-12-14T11:31:47

Surveys conducted over the past two decades have demonstrated that homeless Americans are exceptionally diverse and include representatives from all segments of society—the old and the young; men and women; single people and families; city dwellers and rural residents; whites and people of color; and able-bodied workers and people with serious health problems. Veterans, who are among the most honored citizens in our society, appear in substantial numbers among the homeless, as do former criminal offenders and illegal immigrants. Each of these groups experiences distinctive forms of adversity resulting from both societal structures and personal vulnerabilities, and has unique service delivery needs. All, however, experience extreme poverty, lack of housing, and a mixture of internally impaired or externally inhibited functional capabilities. Attention to the distinctive characteristics of subgroups of the homeless is important in facilitating service delivery and program planning, but may also diffuse attention away from shared fundamental needs, and generate unproductive policy debate about deserving vs. undeserving homeless people. (Authors)