There is a pressing need in New York City to address the issues and challenges of homeless New Yorkers with cancer, renal disease, diabetes, chronic heart disease and other serious medical conditions. Many of these conditions require long-term solutions and others can be addressed in the short-term. Studies have shown and experience has confirmed that housing is inextricably connected to health and there is a hospital-homeless cycle for homeless patients. When these patients who have temporary post-hospitalization needs are discharged from hospitals to shelters or similar places, they cannot safely and effectively convalesce. Their need for IV antibiotics, wound care, medication regimens, special diets, etc. cannot be met in unstable housing situations. Their condition deteriorates and they are often re-admitted and the cycle begins again.
Homeless New Yorkers Need a Safe Place to Recuperate – Not the Street
Categories:
Introduction to Medical Respite, Medical Respite, Medical Respite Care, Policy and Advocacy, Policy Issues