A major public health problem in the United States and worldwide, the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the leading cause of death from liver disease and the principal indication for liver transplantation in the United States. Approximately 3.2 million persons are infected with HCV, making it the most common chronic bloodborne infection in the US. […]
Healing Hands: Hepatitis C Update (2013) Read More >>
Clinicians working in homeless health care devote their energy to the health and well being of their clients, helping them obtain the medical care, housing, and social services that they need. To ensure a long and successful career, it is essential to remember to take care of yourself, too. Those who work with individuals and
Healing Hands: Compassion Fatigue: The High Cost of Caring Read More >>
This issue explores the public health ramifications of unintended pregnancy and discusses contraception options for women experiencing homelessness. The newsletter also looks at funding sources for family planning programs and includes a toolkit of practical resources for providers and patients. Supplement: Methods of Contraception. Download Research (PDF)
Healing Hands: Decreasing Unintended Pregnancy Among Women Experiencing Homelessness Read More >>
Being homeless and living in poverty is hard. Poverty means unsafe and substandard housing or no housing at all. Research shows that poverty is a fundamental determinant of both physical and mental health. Living in poverty means you are more likely to have poor nutrition, have a chronic health condition, struggle with addiction, and experience
Since trauma also influences how people approach and respond to services, it is critical that organizations serving trauma survivors recognize trauma symptoms, acknowledge the role that trauma has played in their clients’ lives, and better understand and address the needs of those with trauma histories. The goal of this approach—known as trauma-informed care—is to avoid
Healing Hands: Trauma Informed Care Read More >>
We offer this Healing Hands issue to the cause of overcoming all violence, with deep gratitude for those who face danger every day, yet bravely and lovingly choose to continue to help their neighbors heal. Download Research (PDF)
Healing Hands: Workplace Violence: What You Need to Know Read More >>
The February 2009 issue of Healing Hands addressed challenges of comorbid mental illness and substance-related disorders. Due to their prevalence, these co-occurring disorders present difficult treatment problems for Health Care for the Homeless providers. Clinicians across the United States responded that co-occurring medical issues also were integral to the care needs of their homeless clients.
Healing Hands: Caring for Clients with Comorbid Psychiatric & Medical Illnesses Read More >>
Comorbid mental illness and substance-related disorders—commonly known as co-occurring disorders (COD) or dual diagnosis—present difficult treatment problems. Clients with COD are extremely heterogeneous with respect to type and severity of illness, personal skills, and available care networks. Those who are homeless may be at increased risk for exacerbated illness due to limited treatment access and
