Health and homelessness a whole-systems perspective

People who are homeless often have multiple, complex health needs. Health services need to be adapted to ensure that they receive appropriate care in a cost-effective way, and that this is done in partnership with other agencies so that their needs are met in an holistic and productive manner. This can be achieved by modifying existing care pathways, by provision of specialist services or both. Any local solution will depend on the number of people who are homeless and their needs. The undertaking of joint strategic needs assessments offers an opportunity to influence commissioners to ensure that the needs of people who are homeless are included in future care and support developments.