Advocating for Better Health Care for Our Unhoused Neighbors

As we conclude our series on healthcare in June, I want to address the challenges that individuals experiencing homelessness face when it comes to accessing vital health care services. It is crucial that we understand these obstacles and work together to advocate for a more equitable and compassionate health care system for people on the margins.

Challenge 1: Limited Access and Resources

Many individuals living on the streets struggle to access basic health care due to a lack of transportation, identification, or insurance. Scheduling appointments and receiving follow-up care becomes incredibly challenging without a stable address or phone number. This leads to untreated illnesses, delayed interventions, and worsening health conditions. Imagine trying to navigate a health issue, challenges with insurance, etc., which can be difficult for anyone, without access to a place to rest, a phone, or other necessities. This is why we are so grateful for our ongoing partnership with Ryan Health who has offered vaccinations on-site out at our Chelsea Park outreach and regularly sends their mobile medical unit. They believe that "healthcare is a right, not a privilege" and seek to provide quality medical care regardless of someone’s ability to pay. 

Challenge 2: Stigma and Discrimination

The stigma associated with homelessness and poverty often results in discrimination and biases within the healthcare system. Negative perceptions can lead to mistreatment, reluctance to provide necessary care, and a lack of empathy from health care professionals. This further exacerbates the barriers to quality health care for our unhoused neighbors. My friend who did not have insurance was repeatedly turned away from doctors and hospitals with minimal insight into why she was experiencing ongoing debilitating pain. Eventually, she was able to access to support for medical care to learn she had stage 4 cervical cancer. Luckily, she was able to get chemo and is now in remission however she suffered in pain for months before she could get all the tests she needed to diagnose her condition.

Challenge 3: Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Co-occurring mental health issues and substance abuse are prevalent among individuals experiencing homelessness. Unfortunately, there is a significant shortage of mental health care services, tailored to their specific needs. This lack of accessible and comprehensive mental health care further hinders their overall well-being and makes it challenging to break the cycle of homelessness. Housing Works has been a long-time partner with City Relief offering critical mental health services, along with a wide range of medical care. One of the requirements for receiving Supportive Housing is getting a Mental Health Exam. This exam helps housing providers know how to best to assist the potential resident with their overall wellness. Housing Works offers psychiatric appointments which help address both the medical and housing concerns of some of our guests.

To overcome these challenges and advocate for better health care, we can all play a role by sharing the stories and experiences of individuals experiencing homelessness. We can raise awareness about the critical need for improved healthcare access. 

Through social media, conversations with friends and family, or participating in local community initiatives, we can educate others about the unique challenges faced by unhoused individuals and encourage support for policies and programs that prioritize their healthcare needs. Or, if you are a medical professional, it’s possible there are organizations where you could volunteer your time and expertise to provide compassionate care for those who need the services provided by City Relief.

Let's continue to be the voice for change and work towards a world where everyone, regardless of housing status, has access to quality and compassionate health care.

With Gratitude,

Josiah Haken