Clinical Report: Discharge Challenges for Patients Facing Homelessness

Overview

Patients experiencing homelessness face significant challenges with delayed discharges and longer stays in Alternate Level of Care (ALC) settings. This report highlights the complexities surrounding their discharge processes.

Background

The intersection of homelessness and healthcare presents critical challenges, particularly regarding hospital discharge processes. Patients experiencing homelessness often have compounded medical and social issues that increase their vulnerability to poor health outcomes.

Data Highlights

No numerical data is provided in the source material.

Key Findings

• Patients with recent experiences of homelessness had higher rates of ALC designations and longer ALC stay durations.
• 44.1% of patients with recent homelessness were seniors aged 65 years or older.
• 37.7% were older adults aged 45 to 64 years.
• Nearly 20% of patients had an intensive care unit stay prior to ALC designation.
• 22.0% of patients with recent homelessness had a discharge disposition of 'other,' including self-discharge.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers must recognize the unique needs of patients experiencing homelessness during discharge planning.

Conclusion

Addressing the discharge challenges faced by patients experiencing homelessness is vital.

Related Resources & Content

1. Richard et al, JAMA Network Open, 2023 -- Disparities in Delayed Discharge Among Patients Experiencing Homelessness
2. JAMA Network Open — Housing Attainment With the Psychiatric Assistance for Transitional Homelessness in Shelters Program
3. Journal of General Internal Medicine — Patient and Primary Care Characteristics Associated with Emergency Department Utilization Among Homeless-Experienced Veterans
4. Journal of General Internal Medicine (Springer) — Experiences of Adults Managing Cardiovascular Health While in Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH): A Qualitative Study
5. JAMA Network Open — Long-Acting Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV via Drop-in Community-Based Care
6. CMS State Operations Manual
7. NHS England Model Discharge Pathway
8. NICE Guidelines on Integrated Health and Social Care
9. Health Technology Review Guidance: Alternate Level of Care in Canada
10. Disparities in Delayed Discharge Among Patients Experiencing Homelessness | Health Policy | JAMA Network Open | JAMA Network
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13. https://academic.oup.com/gerontologist/article/65/6/gnaf088/8052200
14. Toolkit: Creating Care and Discharge Plans for People Experiencing Homelessness who are Hospitalized - National Health Care for the Homeless Council