Despite initial perceptions, research has found that people who have a history of substance use can successfully complete outpatient IV antibiotic treatment when thoughtful and client-centered treatment and follow-up plans are put into place as part of the hospital discharge plan.
Medical respite care (MRC) is a promising and effective approach to support people experiencing homelessness who are receiving IV antibiotic treatment. Supporting people prescribed IV antibiotics can be achieved across the Models of Medical Respite Care (Models of Care) and across the spectrum of low-barrier to abstinencebased programs. In fact, medical respite care programs can be a more appropriate location for individuals to receive this type of treatment than higher levels of care, such as hospitals or skilled nursing facilities. This is due both to the expertise of programs in supporting the complex medical and behavioral health care needs of those who are unhoused and also their focus on care coordination and community connection to address multiple needs, not just the completion of the IV antibiotic treatment course. Additionally, programs that implement a trauma-informed approach and allow clients to engage in community activities may have more success in retaining individuals until their course of treatment is completed and prevent unplanned and early discharge.
