What are the perceived health care needs of the homeless?

Abstract

Although efforts have been made over the years to assist the homeless in their access to health care, and in improving their overall health, many remain in great need. Health care organizations and well-meaning providers may be lacking in the provision of appropriate holistic care, consequently having a limited effect on improving the health status for many of these individuals. Advanced practice nurses and other providers must listen to the expressed needs of the homeless in order to address those needs in more comprehensive and relevant ways. This Qualitative Research study aims to answer the research question, "What ARE the perceived health care needs of the homeless?" Opinions of 18 homeless individuals and concepts from Madeleine Leininger's Cultural Care theory were used to explore and clarify the health care needs of the homeless as expressed by the homeless themselves.