Recognition of signs, causes, and prevalence of homelessness in the community is necessary
TUESDAY, May 28 (HealthDay News) -- Pediatricians can play an important role in improving health outcomes for children facing homelessness and housing insecurity, according to a policy statement published online May 27 in Pediatrics.
Melissa A. Briggs, M.D., M.P.H., from the American Academy of Pediatrics' Council on Community Pediatrics, and colleagues discuss the health challenges relating to children affected by homelessness, including difficulty accessing health care, inadequate nutrition, education interruptions, trauma, and family dynamics.
According to the report, pediatricians can help improve the health of homeless children through practice strategies that include: increasing access to health care services by facilitating Medicaid enrollment to eligible children and families, when possible; understanding best practices for care of homeless populations; optimizing acute care visits to provide comprehensive care, if possible; and identifying the issues of homelessness and housing insecurity in their patient population. In addition, pediatricians should seek to identify the underlying causes of homelessness; partner with families to develop care plans; become familiar with government and community-based services and facilitate connection to appropriate resources; understand the prevalence of homelessness; and assist in the development of shelter-based care. Pediatricians should advocate for the health care needs of homeless children and families by supporting local, state, and federal policies to increase housing and by supporting creative approaches for providing stable health insurance to the homeless.
"Through practice change, partnership with community resources, awareness, and advocacy, pediatricians can help optimize the health and well-being of children affected by homelessness," the authors write.
Abstract
Full Text