The health encounter as a treatable moment for homeless substance-using adults: the role of homelessness, health seeking behavior, readiness for behavior change and motivation for treatment.

Author: BigelowGeorge, FordDaniel E, O'TooleThomas P, PolliniRobin A

Paper Details 
Original Abstract of the Article :
Substance-using homeless persons frequent emergency departments and hospitals often. However, little is known about how homelessness affects when they seek care and their motivation for substance abuse treatment (SAT). We surveyed homeless (N=266) and non-homeless (N=104) substance-using adults sequ...See full text at original site
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引用元:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addbeh.2008.04.015

データ提供:米国国立医学図書館(NLM)

The Health Encounter: A Pivotal Moment for Homeless Substance-Using Adults

The lives of homeless individuals struggling with substance abuse often resemble a turbulent desert, filled with challenges and uncertainty. This research delves into the complexities of health seeking behavior and motivation for substance abuse treatment (SAT) among this vulnerable population, highlighting the unique role of homelessness in their healthcare journey.

The authors conducted a comparative survey of homeless and non-homeless substance-using adults admitted to an urban hospital medicine service. They meticulously analyzed demographics, readiness for change, and motivating factors for SAT, shedding light on the unique factors influencing their healthcare decisions. The study revealed that homelessness was indeed a significant motivator for seeking SAT, underscoring the importance of tailoring interventions to address this specific need.

The Impact of Homelessness on Healthcare Access

Homelessness can create an insurmountable barrier to accessing healthcare, akin to an impassable sandstorm in a desert. This research reveals that homelessness significantly affects when individuals seek care and their motivation for treatment. The study found that almost half of the homeless respondents reported delaying healthcare due to their housing status, highlighting the critical need for accessible and responsive care for this vulnerable population.

Navigating the Challenges of Homelessness and Substance Abuse

The intersection of homelessness and substance abuse presents a complex and challenging terrain, like a vast desert with hidden dangers. This study provides essential insights into the healthcare needs of this population, emphasizing the importance of addressing both the immediate needs of homelessness and the underlying challenges of substance abuse. The authors' findings underscore the need for tailored interventions that consider the unique experiences and motivations of homeless individuals struggling with substance abuse.

Dr. Camel's Conclusion

This research serves as a compass guiding us through the complex landscape of homelessness and substance abuse. The study highlights the crucial role of healthcare encounters as pivotal moments for intervention, emphasizing the need to tailor interventions to address the specific needs and motivations of homeless individuals seeking treatment. The findings remind us that the journey to recovery is often intertwined with the challenges of homelessness, requiring compassionate and holistic care.

Date :
  1. Date Completed 2009-03-16
  2. Date Revised 2022-12-07
Further Info :

Pubmed ID

18562126

DOI: Digital Object Identifier

10.1016/j.addbeh.2008.04.015

Related Literature

SNS
PICO Info
in preparation
Languages

English

Positive IndicatorAn AI analysis index that serves as a benchmark for how positive the results of the study are. Note that it is a benchmark and requires careful interpretation and consideration of different perspectives.

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