Systems and policy factors affecting service delivery for homeless adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities - Scorecard - MDSpire

Systems and policy factors affecting service delivery for homeless adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities

  • By

  • Whitney Thurman

  • Elizabeth Heitkemper

  • Tara Hutson

  • July 15, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: Factors at the Systems and Policy Level Influencing Service Provision for Homeless Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionIntellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
Key MechanismsBarriers to accessing services due to structural inequities and fragmented care systems.
Target PopulationHomeless adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
Care SettingPublic systems for disability, healthcare, and housing assistance.

Key Highlights

  • Adults with IDD are overrepresented in homeless populations, with estimates ranging from 12% to 39%.
  • The housing affordability crisis exacerbates the risk of homelessness for individuals with IDD.
  • Functional limitations make navigating service systems challenging for adults with IDD.
  • Case management is critical for coordinating care and accessing services.
  • Structural ableism impacts health equity for homeless adults with IDD.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Identify the presence of IDD and assess functional limitations impacting service access.

Management

  • Implement coordinated care models to address the complex needs of homeless adults with IDD.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of service delivery and care coordination.

Risks

  • Recognize the compounded vulnerabilities due to co-occurring mental health issues and economic marginalization.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Adults with IDD experiencing homelessness.

Access to stable housing and ongoing support services is essential for this population.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Foster interdisciplinary collaboration among service providers.
  • Develop models of care that minimize system churn.
  • Enhance access to housing assistance and support services.

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