Factors associated with the health service utilization of unsheltered, chronically homeless adults

Abstract

Individuals who are chronically homeless have significantly higher rates of morbidity at significantly younger ages because they experience homelessness, physical and mental health impairments, and substance use disorders. The health status and health service utilization of 260 unsheltered, chronically homeless individuals in a large southwestern, metropolitan community are reported. The behavioral model for vulnerable populations was used to conceptualize the factors associated with hospital, mental health, and substance abuse service utilization among the sample. Health insurance coverage was positively associated with the use of all health services. Other factors were also observed to exert differential relationships to health service utilization.