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Russolillo A, Moniruzzaman A, Carter M, Raudzus J, Somers JM. Association of homelessness and psychiatric hospital readmission-a retrospective cohort study 2016-2020. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:459. [PMID: 37353747 PMCID: PMC10288711 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04945-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A large proportion of adult psychiatric inpatients experience homelessness and are often discharged to unstable accommodation or the street. It is unclear whether homelessness impacts psychiatric hospital readmission. Our primary objective was to examine the association between homelessness and risk for 30-day and 90-day readmission following discharge from a psychiatric unit at a single urban hospital. METHODS A retrospective cohort study involving health administrative data among individuals (n = 3907) in Vancouver, Canada with an acute psychiatric admission between January 2016 and December 2020. Participants were followed from the date of index admission until censoring (December 30, 2020). Homelessness was measured at index admission and treated as a time-varying exposure. Adjusted Hazard Ratios (aHRs) of acute readmission (30-day and 90-day) for psychiatric and substance use disorders were estimated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression. RESULTS The cohort comprised 3907 individuals who were predominantly male (61.89%) with a severe mental illness (70.92%), substance use disorder (20.45%) and mean age of 40.66 (SD, 14.33). A total of 686 (17.56%) individuals were homeless at their index hospitalization averaging 19.13 (21.53) days in hospital. After adjusting for covariates, patients experiencing homelessness had a 2.04 (1.65, 2.51) increased rate of 30-day readmission and 1.65 (1.24, 2.19) increased rate of 90-day readmission during the observation period. CONCLUSIONS Homelessness was significantly associated with increased 30-day and 90-day readmission rates in a large comprehensive sample of adults with mental illness and substance use disorders. Interventions to reduce homelessness are urgently needed. QUESTION Is homelessness associated with risk for 30-day and 90-day psychiatric hospital readmission? FINDINGS In this retrospective cohort study of 3907 individuals, homelessness at discharge was associated with increased 30-day and 90-day psychiatric readmission. MEANING Housing status is an important risk factor for hospital readmission. High-quality interventions focused on housing supports have the potential to reduce psychiatric readmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Russolillo
- Department of Psychiatry, St. Paul's Hospital, Providence Health Care, 1081 Burrard Street, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Vancouver, Canada.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, 515 West Hastings Street, BC, V6B 5K3, Vancouver, Canada.
| | - Akm Moniruzzaman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, 515 West Hastings Street, BC, V6B 5K3, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Michelle Carter
- Department of Psychiatry, St. Paul's Hospital, Providence Health Care, 1081 Burrard Street, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Julia Raudzus
- Department of Psychiatry, St. Paul's Hospital, Providence Health Care, 1081 Burrard Street, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Julian M Somers
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, 515 West Hastings Street, BC, V6B 5K3, Vancouver, Canada
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Mosnier E, Loubiere S, Monfardini E, Alibert A, Landier J, Ninoves L, Bosetti T, Auquier P, Mosnier M, Wakap SN, Warszawski J, Tinland A. Cumulative incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection within the homeless population: insights from a city-wide longitudinal study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e065734. [PMID: 36822808 PMCID: PMC9950589 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in a cohort of homeless people using survival analysis. Seroprevalence in the homeless community was also compared with that of the general population. DESIGN Cohort study. SETTING Data were collected across two testing sessions, 3 months apart, during which each participant was tested for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and completed a face-to-face survey. PARTICIPANTS All homeless adults sleeping rough, in slums or squats, in emergency shelters or transitional accommodation in Marseille were eligible. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES Occurrence of a seroconversion event defined as a biologically confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Local data from a national seroprevalence survey were used for comparison between homeless people and the general population. RESULTS A total of 1249 people were included. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence increased from 6.0% (4.7-7.3) during the first session to 18.9% (16.0-21.7) during the second one, compared with 3.0% (1.9-4.2) and 6.5% (4.5-8.7) in the general population. Factors significantly associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 infection were: having stayed in emergency shelters (1.93 (1.18-3.15)), being an isolated parent (1.64 (1.07-2.52)) and having contact with more than 5-15 people per day (1.84 (1.27-2.67)). By contrast, smoking (0.46 (0.32-0.65)), having financial resources (0.70 (0.51-0.97)) and psychiatric or addictive comorbidities (0.52 (0.32-0.85)) were associated with a lower risk. CONCLUSION We confirm that homeless people have higher infection rates than the general population, with increased risk in emergency shelters. There is growing evidence that, in addition to usual preventive measures, public policies should pay attention to adapt the type of accommodation and overall approach of precariousness. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04408131.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Mosnier
- Department of Psychiatry, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Sandrine Loubiere
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Support Unit for clinical research and economic evaluation, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille University, School of medicine - La Timone Medical Campus, UR3279: CEReSS - Health Service Research and Quality of Life Center, Marseille, France
| | - Elisabetta Monfardini
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Support Unit for clinical research and economic evaluation, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Agathe Alibert
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Support Unit for clinical research and economic evaluation, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
- Research Group on Epidemiology of Zoonoses and Public Health (GREZOSP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Jordi Landier
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Laeticia Ninoves
- Unité des Virus Émergents (UVE: Aix-Marseille Univ-IRD 190-Inserm 1207), Marseille, France
| | - Thomas Bosetti
- Médecins du Monde - Doctors of the World, Marseille, France
| | - Pascal Auquier
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Support Unit for clinical research and economic evaluation, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille University, School of medicine - La Timone Medical Campus, UR3279: CEReSS - Health Service Research and Quality of Life Center, Marseille, France
| | - Marine Mosnier
- Médecins du Monde - Doctors of the World, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Aurelie Tinland
- Department of Psychiatry, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille University, School of medicine - La Timone Medical Campus, UR3279: CEReSS - Health Service Research and Quality of Life Center, Marseille, France
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Our goal was to identify the demographic profile of the people living homeless with mental illness in Lisboa, Portugal, and their relationship with the national healthcare system. We also tried to understand which factors contribute to the number and duration of psychiatric admissions among these homeless people. METHODS We used a cross-sectional design, collecting data for 4 years among homeless people, in Lisboa, Portugal, that were referred as possible psychiatric patients to Centro Hospitalar Psiquiátrico de Lisboa (CHPL). In total, we collected data from 500 homeless people, then cross-checked these people in our CHPL hospital electronic database and obtained 467 patient matches. RESULTS The most common psychiatric diagnosis in our sample was drug abuse (34%), followed by alcohol abuse (33%), personality disorder (24%), and acute stress reaction (23%). Sixty-two percent of our patients had multiple diagnoses, a subgroup with longer follow-ups, more psychiatric hospitalizations, and longer psychiatric hospitalizations. The prevalence of psychotic disorders was high: organic psychosis (17%), schizophrenia (15%), psychosis not otherwise specified (14%), and schizoaffective disorder (11%), that combined altogether were present in more than half (57%) of our homeless patients. CONCLUSION The people living homeless with multiple diagnoses have higher mental health needs and worse determinants of general health. An ongoing effort is needed to identify and address this subgroup of homeless people with mental illness to improve their treatment and outcomes.
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Choi KR, Castillo EG, Seamans MJ, Grotts JH, Rab S, Kalofonos I, Mead M, Walker IJ, Starks SL. Mental Health Conservatorship Among Homeless People With Serious Mental Illness. Psychiatr Serv 2022; 73:613-619. [PMID: 34704772 PMCID: PMC9132544 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.202100254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to examine associations between homelessness and length of psychiatric hospitalization and to explore the role of mental health conservatorship in determining discharge location for patients who are homeless and have a grave disability from serious mental illness. METHODS This observational study used administrative data from a safety-net psychiatric hospital in Los Angeles. The sample included 795 adults (≥18 years) who were hospitalized on an involuntary psychiatric hold between 2016 and 2018. The outcome variables were length of stay (days) and discharge location (home, locked psychiatric facility, unlocked psychiatric facility, unhoused). The predictor variables were homelessness status and whether a mental health conservatorship was initiated during hospitalization. Multiple regression models were used to estimate associations between variables. RESULTS Homelessness status was associated with 27.5 additional days (SE=3.5 days) of hospitalization in adjusted models. Homeless patients for whom conservatorship was initiated comprised 6% of the sample but 41% of total inpatient days. Among people who were homeless, initiation of a conservatorship was associated with significantly longer length of inpatient stay (mean=154.8 days versus 25.6 days for the whole sample) but also with lower odds of being unhoused at the time of discharge (risk ratio=0.19, 95% confidence interval=0.09-0.34). CONCLUSIONS A mental health conservatorship can be a mechanism for helping homeless people with a grave disability from mental illness to transition from the streets to residential psychiatric treatment, but it requires substantial resources from facilities that initiate such conservatorships and does not guarantee resolution of long-term supportive housing needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen R Choi
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (Choi, Grotts); Department of Health Policy and Management (Choi) and Department of Epidemiology (Seamans), Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA; Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA (Castillo, Kalofonos, Starks); Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA (Rab); Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Kalofonos); Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center (Mead, Walker); all in Los Angeles
| | - Enrico G Castillo
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (Choi, Grotts); Department of Health Policy and Management (Choi) and Department of Epidemiology (Seamans), Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA; Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA (Castillo, Kalofonos, Starks); Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA (Rab); Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Kalofonos); Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center (Mead, Walker); all in Los Angeles
| | - Marissa J Seamans
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (Choi, Grotts); Department of Health Policy and Management (Choi) and Department of Epidemiology (Seamans), Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA; Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA (Castillo, Kalofonos, Starks); Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA (Rab); Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Kalofonos); Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center (Mead, Walker); all in Los Angeles
| | - Joseph H Grotts
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (Choi, Grotts); Department of Health Policy and Management (Choi) and Department of Epidemiology (Seamans), Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA; Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA (Castillo, Kalofonos, Starks); Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA (Rab); Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Kalofonos); Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center (Mead, Walker); all in Los Angeles
| | - Shayan Rab
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (Choi, Grotts); Department of Health Policy and Management (Choi) and Department of Epidemiology (Seamans), Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA; Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA (Castillo, Kalofonos, Starks); Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA (Rab); Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Kalofonos); Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center (Mead, Walker); all in Los Angeles
| | - Ippolytos Kalofonos
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (Choi, Grotts); Department of Health Policy and Management (Choi) and Department of Epidemiology (Seamans), Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA; Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA (Castillo, Kalofonos, Starks); Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA (Rab); Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Kalofonos); Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center (Mead, Walker); all in Los Angeles
| | - Meredith Mead
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (Choi, Grotts); Department of Health Policy and Management (Choi) and Department of Epidemiology (Seamans), Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA; Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA (Castillo, Kalofonos, Starks); Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA (Rab); Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Kalofonos); Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center (Mead, Walker); all in Los Angeles
| | - Imani J Walker
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (Choi, Grotts); Department of Health Policy and Management (Choi) and Department of Epidemiology (Seamans), Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA; Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA (Castillo, Kalofonos, Starks); Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA (Rab); Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Kalofonos); Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center (Mead, Walker); all in Los Angeles
| | - Sarah L Starks
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (Choi, Grotts); Department of Health Policy and Management (Choi) and Department of Epidemiology (Seamans), Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA; Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA (Castillo, Kalofonos, Starks); Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA (Rab); Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (Kalofonos); Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center (Mead, Walker); all in Los Angeles
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Bedmar MA, Bennasar-Veny M, Artigas-Lelong B, Salvà-Mut F, Pou J, Capitán-Moyano L, García-Toro M, Yáñez AM. Health and access to healthcare in homeless people: Protocol for a mixed-methods study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e28816. [PMID: 35363172 PMCID: PMC9282039 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness is a more complex problem than the simple lack of a place to live. Homeless people (HP) often suffer from poor health and premature death due to their limited access healthcare, and are also deprived of basic human and social rights. The study protocol described here aims to evaluate the complex relationship between homelessness and health, and identify the barriers and facilitators that impact access to healthcare by HP. METHODS This is a mixed-methods study that uses an explanatory sequential design. The first phase will consist of a cross-sectional study of 300 HP. Specific health questionnaires will be used to obtain information on health status, challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, self-reported use of healthcare, diagnoses and pharmacologic treatments, substance abuse (DAST-10), diet quality (IASE), depression (PHQ-9), and human basic needs and social support (SSQ-6). The second phase will be a qualitative study of HP using the "life story" technique with purposive sampling. We will determine the effects of different personal, family, and structural factors on the life and health status of participants. The interviews will be structured and defined using Nussbaum's capability approach. DISCUSSION It is well-known that HP experience poor health and premature death, but more information is needed about the influence of the different specific social determinants of these outcomes and about the barriers and facilitators that affect the access of HP to healthcare. The results of this mixed methods study will help to develop global health strategies that improve the health and access to healthcare in HP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A. Bedmar
- Research Group on Global Health & Human Development, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
| | - Miquel Bennasar-Veny
- Research Group on Global Health & Human Development, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
- Research Group on Global Health & Lifestyle, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Berta Artigas-Lelong
- Research Group on Global Health & Human Development, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
- Research Group on Global Health & Lifestyle, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Francesca Salvà-Mut
- Department of Applied Pedagogy and Education Psychology, Institute for Educational Research and Innovation, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
| | - Joan Pou
- Primary Health Care, Balearic Islands Health Services, Palma, Spain
| | - Laura Capitán-Moyano
- Research Group on Global Health & Human Development, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
| | - Mauro García-Toro
- Research Group on Global Health & Lifestyle, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
- Research Group on Mental Disorders of High Prevalence (TRAMAP), Research Institute of Health Sciences (IUNICS), University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Aina M. Yáñez
- Research Group on Global Health & Human Development, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
- Research Group on Global Health & Lifestyle, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Palma, Spain
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Ralli M, Marinelli A, De-Giorgio F, Crescenzi D, Vincentiis MD, Greco A, Arcangeli A, Ercoli L. Prevalence of Otolaryngology Diseases in an Urban Homeless Population. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2021; 166:1022-1027. [PMID: 34813392 DOI: 10.1177/01945998211060699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Otolaryngology diseases are common among people experiencing homelessness; however, they are seldom evaluated in a specialist setting, and investigations on their prevalence have rarely been conducted. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the prevalence of otolaryngology conditions in an urban homeless population. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study. SETTING Primary health care facility. METHODS The clinical records of patients referred to the medical facilities of the Primary Care Services of the Eleemosynaria Apostolica, Vatican City, between October 1, 2019, and July 31, 2021, were retrospectively reviewed; those reporting at least 1 otolaryngology disease were included in the study. RESULTS A total of 2516 records were retrospectively reviewed, and 484 (19.24%) were included in the study. The most common otolaryngology disease was pharyngotonsillitis (n = 118, 24.13%), followed by rhinitis with nasal obstruction (n = 107, 21.88%), hearing loss (n = 93, 19.01%), otitis (n = 81, 16.56%), abscess (n = 46, 9.40%), and sinusitis (n = 33, 6.74%). Head and neck cancer or precancerous lesions were reported in 34 subjects (7.02%). More than 1 simultaneous otolaryngology disorder was found in nearly 50% of our sample. A wide range of comorbidities was also reported. CONCLUSIONS Our results confirm an elevated otolaryngology demand in the homeless population and encourage the development of more efficient and effective strategies for a population-tailored diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Ralli
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Primary Care Services, Eleemosynaria Apostolica, Vatican City State
| | - Alessia Marinelli
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio De-Giorgio
- Department of Health Care Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Legal Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio Greco
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Arcangeli
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Ercoli
- Primary Care Services, Eleemosynaria Apostolica, Vatican City State.,Istituto di Medicina Solidale Onlus, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
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Grammatikopoulou MG, Gkiouras K, Pepa A, Persynaki A, Taousani E, Milapidou M, Smyrnakis E, Goulis DG. Health status of women affected by homelessness: A cluster of in concreto human rights violations and a time for action. Maturitas 2021; 154:31-45. [PMID: 34736578 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2021.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Health problems of women experiencing homelessness are driven either from the usual background characteristics of this population, or from the homeless lifestyle. Apart from poverty and unemployment, transition to homelessness is often associated with substance abuse, history of victimization, stress, poor mental health and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Water insecurity can undermine bodily hygiene and dental health, posing a greater risk of dehydration and opportunistic infections. Exposure to extreme environmental conditions like heat waves and natural disasters increases morbidity, accelerates aging, and reduces life expectancy. Nutrition-wise, a high prevalence of food insecurity, obesity, and micronutrient deficiencies are apparent due to low diet quality and food waste. Poor hygiene, violence, and overcrowding increase the susceptibility of these women to communicable diseases, including sexually transmitted ones and COVID-19. Furthermore, established cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus are often either undertreated or neglected, and their complications are more widespread than in the general population. In addition, lack of medical screening and contraception non-use induce a variety of reproductive health issues. All these health conditions are tightly related to violations of human rights in this population, including the rights to housing, water, food, reproduction, health, work, and no discrimination. Thus, the care provided to women experiencing homelessness should be optimized at a multidimensional level, spanning beyond the provision of a warm bed, to include access to clean water and sanitation, psychological support and stress-coping strategies, disease management and acute health care, food of adequate quality, opportunities for employment and support for any minor dependants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria G Grammatikopoulou
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece; Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Alexander Campus, International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Gkiouras
- Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Aleks Pepa
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Agricultural University of Athens, Greece
| | | | - Eleftheria Taousani
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, International Hellenic University, Alexander Campus, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Milapidou
- Dr. Juris, Post Doc Researcher, Faculty of Law, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Emmanouil Smyrnakis
- Laboratory of Primary Health Care, General Practice and Health Services Research, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios G Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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8
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Multivariable modelling of factors associated with criminal convictions among people experiencing homelessness and serious mental illness: a multi-year study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16610. [PMID: 34400747 PMCID: PMC8368183 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96186-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
People experiencing homelessness and serious mental illness exhibit high rates of criminal justice system involvement. Researchers have debated the causes of such involvement among people experiencing serious mental illness, including what services to prioritize. Some, for example, have emphasized mental illness while others have emphasized poverty. We examined factors associated with criminal convictions among people experiencing homelessness and serious mental illness recruited to the Vancouver At Home study. Participants were recruited between October 2009 and June 2011. Comprehensive administrative data were examined over the five-year period preceding study baseline to identify risk and protective factors associated with criminal convictions among participants (n = 425). Eight variables were independently associated with criminal convictions, some of which included drug dependence (RR = 1.53; P = 0.009), psychiatric hospitalization (RR = 1.44; P = 0.030), an irregular frequency of social assistance payments (compared to regular payments; 1.75; P < 0.001), and prior conviction (RR = 3.56; P < 0.001). Collectively, findings of the present study implicate poverty, social marginalization, crises involving mental illness, and the need for long-term recovery-oriented services that address these conditions to reduce criminal convictions among people experiencing homelessness and serious mental illness.
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Subedi K. Analysis of Factors Associated With Length of Stay of Opioid-Related Emergency Department Visits. Cureus 2021; 13:e16213. [PMID: 34367814 PMCID: PMC8341198 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.16213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction and Objective: Emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS) is an important indicator of the quality of care in ED and is associated with patients’ outcomes and healthcare costs. However, there is limited data on how the patient characteristics affect the ED LOS of opioid-related visits. This study aims to identify and quantify the effect of patient-related characteristics on LOS of opioid-related ED visits. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of electronic health records (EHR) of patients with diagnoses of opioid abuse. The study included patients with a diagnosis of opioid abuse who visited the ED at Christiana Care Hospital from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2018 (N=5,661). The opioid-related visits were identified using ICD-10 diagnosis codes. We used accelerated failure time (AFT) models, a time-to-event analysis approach to evaluate the relationships of different patient characteristics with ED LOS. Results: The mean age of the study population was 39 years. The study population had 40% female, 20% Black/African American, and 5% Hispanic or Latino. The prevalence of co-use of cocaine and co-use of alcohol was 11%, and 9%, respectively. Also, 58% had mental health comorbidity, and 1% were homeless. The distribution of ED LOS was right-skewed with a median of 4.3 (IQR: 2.6, 6.8). Co-use of alcohol (time ratio, TR: 1.31, CI: 1.23-1.40), co-use of cocaine (TR: 1.18, CI: 1.11-1.25), the presence of mental health comorbidity (TR: 1.05, CI 1.01-1.09), and homelessness (TR: 1.57, CI: 1.32-1.86) were associated with increased ED LOS. Conclusions: Co-use of alcohol, co-use of cocaine, homelessness, and mental health comorbidity are associated with the longer LOS of opioid-related ED visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keshab Subedi
- iREACH, ChristianaCare Health Systems, Wilmington, USA
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Factors Associated with Readmission Among General Internal Medicine Patients Experiencing Homelessness. J Gen Intern Med 2021; 36:1944-1950. [PMID: 33515192 PMCID: PMC8298720 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-020-06483-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who are homeless have a higher burden of illness and higher rates of hospital admission and readmission compared to the general population. Identifying the factors associated with hospital readmission could help healthcare providers and policymakers improve post-discharge care for homeless patients. OBJECTIVE To identify factors associated with hospital readmission within 90 days of discharge from a general internal medicine unit among patients experiencing homelessness. DESIGN This prospective observational study was conducted at an urban academic teaching hospital in Toronto, Canada. Interviewer-administered questionnaires and chart reviews were completed to assess medical, social, processes of care, and hospitalization data. Multivariable logistic regression with backward selection was used to identify factors associated with a subsequent readmission and estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. PARTICIPANTS Adults (N = 129) who were admitted to the general internal medicine service between November 2017 and November 2018 and who were homeless at the time of admission. MAIN MEASURES Unplanned all-cause readmission to the study hospital within 90 days of discharge. KEY RESULTS Thirty-five of 129 participants (27.1%) were readmitted within 90 days of discharge. Factors associated with lower odds of readmission included having an active case manager (adjusted odds ratios [aOR]: 0.31, 95% CI, 0.13-0.76), having informal support such as friends and family (aOR: 0.25, 95% CI, 0.08-0.78), and sending a copy of the patient's discharge plan to a primary care physician who had cared for the patient within the last year (aOR: 0.44, 95% CI, 0.17-1.16). A higher number of medications prescribed at discharge was associated with higher odds of readmission (aOR: 1.12, 95% CI, 1.02-1.23). CONCLUSION Interventions to reduce hospital readmission for people who are homeless should evaluate tailored discharge planning and dedicated resources to support implementation of these plans in the community.
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Fleury MJ, Grenier G, Sabetti J, Bertrand K, Clément M, Brochu S. Met and unmet needs of homeless individuals at different stages of housing reintegration: A mixed-method investigation. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245088. [PMID: 33444366 PMCID: PMC7808646 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify and compare major areas of met and unmet needs reported by 455 homeless or recently housed individuals recruited from emergency shelters, temporary housing, and permanent housing in Quebec (Canada). Mixed methods, guided by the Maslow framework, were used. Basic needs were the strongest needs category identified, followed by health and social services (an emergent category), and safety; very few participants expressed needs in the higher-order categories of love and belonging, self-esteem, and self-actualization. The only significant differences between the three housing groups occurred in basic needs met, which favored permanent housing residents. Safety was the only category where individuals reported more unmet than met needs. The study results suggested that increased overall access to and continuity of care with family physicians, MD or SUD clinicians and community organizations for social integration should be provided to help better these individuals. Case management, stigma prevention, supported employment programs, peer support and day centers should particularly be more widely implemented as interventions that may promote a higher incidence of met needs in specific needs categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Josée Fleury
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Guy Grenier
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Judith Sabetti
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- McGill University School of Social Work, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Karine Bertrand
- Département des Sciences de la Santé Communautaire, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michèle Clément
- Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Serge Brochu
- Département de Criminologie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
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Effectiveness of a housing support team intervention with a recovery-oriented approach on hospital and emergency department use by homeless people with severe mental illness: a randomised controlled trial. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2020; 29:e169. [PMID: 32996442 PMCID: PMC7576524 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796020000785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Many people who are homeless with severe mental illnesses are high users of healthcare services and social services, without reducing widen health inequalities in this vulnerable population. This study aimed to determine whether independent housing with mental health support teams with a recovery-oriented approach (Housing First (HF) program) for people who are homeless with severe mental disorders improves hospital and emergency department use. METHODS We did a randomised controlled trial in four French cities: Lille, Marseille, Paris and Toulouse. Participants were eligible if they were 18 years or older, being absolutely homeless or precariously housed, with a diagnosis of schizophrenia (SCZ) or bipolar disorder (BD) and were required to have a high level of needs (moderate-to-severe disability and past hospitalisations over the last 5 years or comorbid alcohol or substance use disorder). Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to immediate access to independent housing and support from the Assertive Community Treatment team (social worker, nurse, doctor, psychiatrist and peer worker) (HF group) or treatment as usual (TAU group) namely pre-existing dedicated homeless-targeted programs and services. Participants and interviewers were unmasked to assignment. The primary outcomes were the number of emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalisation admissions and inpatient days at 24 months. Secondary outcomes were recovery (Recovery Assessment Scale), quality of life (SQOL and SF36), mental health symptoms, addiction issues, stably housed days and cost savings from a societal perspective. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed. RESULTS Eligible patients were randomly assigned to the HF group (n = 353) or TAU group (n = 350). No differences were found in the number of hospital admissions (relative risk (95% CI), 0.96 (0.76-1.21)) or ED visits (0.89 (0.66-1.21)). Significantly less inpatient days were found for HF v. TAU (0.62 (0.48-0.80)). The HF group exhibited higher housing stability (difference in slope, 116 (103-128)) and higher scores for sub-dimensions of S-QOL scale (psychological well-being and autonomy). No differences were found for physical composite score SF36, mental health symptoms and rates of alcohol or substance dependence. Mean difference in costs was €-217 per patient over 24 months in favour of the HF group. HF was associated with cost savings in healthcare costs (RR 0.62(0.48-0.78)) and residential costs (0.07 (0.05-0.11)). CONCLUSION An immediate access to independent housing and support from a mental health team resulted in decreased inpatient days, higher housing stability and cost savings in homeless persons with SCZ or BP disorders.
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Gabet M, Grenier G, Perrottet D, Fleury MJ. Le soutien postlogement transitoire auprès des femmes en situation d’itinérance : besoins, implantation et impact d’une étude pilote. SANTE MENTALE AU QUEBEC 2020. [DOI: 10.7202/1070242ar] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objectifs Les dispositifs de soutien en logement sont parmi les solutions soutenues pour contrer l’itinérance. Le logement transitoire (LT) offre une trajectoire séquentielle d’accès à la stabilité résidentielle : des refuges au LT, au logement permanent avec ou sans soutien. Le suivi post-LT permettrait d’améliorer la stabilité résidentielle et l’intégration communautaire. Néanmoins, peu d’informations sont disponibles sur les conditions de succès et la capacité du suivi post-LT à améliorer la stabilité résidentielle et l’intégration communautaire des personnes itinérantes, en particulier les femmes. Cette étude de cas pilote visait à identifier les besoins de femmes recevant du suivi post-LT, l’implantation des activités de suivi et ses conditions de succès, ainsi que son impact en réponse aux besoins exprimés.
Méthode Deux organismes à but non lucratif ont été sélectionnés à Montréal. Une étude de cas à partir de méthodes mixtes a permis de trianguler les données provenant de femmes en situation d’itinérance, de leurs intervenantes et des gestionnaires de ressources de suivi post-LT. Deux entretiens ont été menés à un intervalle de 6 mois avec ces femmes (n = 10). Les besoins et l’impact du suivi post-LT ont été mesurés grâce à un questionnaire (questions ouvertes et fermées). Pour documenter l’implantation du suivi, des informations ont été colligées auprès des intervenantes (n = 2) sur les activités et l’intensité des services offerts à l’aide de fiches de contact. Des facteurs facilitant et entravant le suivi post-LT ont également été identifiés lors d’une entrevue de groupe avec les intervenantes (n = 2) et les gestionnaires (n = 4).
Résultats Les usagères ont identifié des besoins liés à la santé, aux activités quotidiennes et à l’intégration sociale. La plupart des femmes étaient satisfaites des activités et de la fréquence du suivi, de la facilité d’accès des intervenantes et de la capacité du suivi à répondre à leurs besoins. L’intensité du suivi, l’alliance thérapeutique usagère/intervenante et la motivation des usagères ont été identifiées comme des facteurs facilitants. Les facteurs entravants comprenaient : la durée limitée de l’insertion préalable en LT, particulièrement chez les usagères ayant subi un traumatisme majeur ; les comportements réfractaires ; la réticence à prendre des médicaments et la dépendance à des substances psychoactives ; les problèmes d’accès aux services, dont les services de santé mentale spécialisés ; et pour les intervenantes, les contraintes de temps, les difficultés logistiques, et le manque de logements permanents abordables adéquats. Après six mois, 80 % des usagères avaient conservé le même logement, et leur intégration communautaire n’avait pas changé.
Conclusion Le suivi post-LT semble adapté pour promouvoir la stabilité résidentielle chez les femmes en situation d’itinérance chronique et ayant des problèmes de santé mentale ou de dépendance, première étape essentielle vers l’intégration communautaire. L’étude a souligné l’importance d’offrir des modalités de services adaptés aux besoins des usagères. Un meilleur financement du suivi post-LT, une collaboration plus étroite avec d’autres services publics, une formation accrue des intervenantes et une augmentation du nombre de logements permanents abordables et adéquats favoriseraient un déploiement plus efficace du suivi post-LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Gabet
- M. Sc., Ph. D. (c), Assistante de recherche, Centre de recherche de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale Douglas, Montréal
| | - Guy Grenier
- Ph. D., Associé de recherche, Centre de recherche de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale Douglas, Montréal
| | - Daniela Perrottet
- M. Sc., Coordonnatrice de recherche, Centre de recherche de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale Douglas, Montréal
| | - Marie-Josée Fleury
- Ph. D., Professeure titulaire, Département de psychiatrie, Université McGill ; chercheuse, Centre de recherche de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale Douglas, Montréal
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Ly TDA, Dao TL, Hoang VT, Braunstein D, Brouqui P, Lagier JC, Parola P, Gautret P. Pattern of infections in French and migrant homeless hospitalised at Marseille infectious disease units, France: A retrospective study, 2017-2018. Travel Med Infect Dis 2020; 36:101768. [PMID: 32504668 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2020.101768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No research has been conducted on the clinical characteristics and outcomes of homeless patients (HP) hospitalized in Infectious Disease Units (IDU). METHODS We conducted a retrospective survey among 98 HP and 98 non-HP admitted between 2017 and 2018 in several IDUs in Marseille, France. RESULTS HP were more likely to be migrant, to report frequent alcohol consumption or illicit drug use, and to present with respiratory symptoms at admission compared to controls. The most common final diagnoses in HP were respiratory tract infections (other than pulmonary tuberculosis [PTB], 35.7%), sexually transmitted infections (20.4%), cutaneous and mucosal infections (19.4%) and tuberculosis (12.2%). Sexually transmitted infections and ectoparasite infestations were significantly more frequent in HP compared to controls. One HP died from pleural effusion as a complication of PTB. The surviving HP had a longer length of stay (LOS, average 11.6 ± 13.6 days, p < 0.0001) than controls; independent factors of increased LOS were tobacco use (p = 0.009), tuberculosis infection (p < 0.0001), urinary tract infection (p = 0.018) and bacteraemia (p = 0.018). After hospital discharge, attendance at subsequent planned consultations was significantly lower in HP (0.72 ± 1.25 times/persons) compared to controls (2.03 ± 2.2). CONCLUSIONS We suggest that HP present specific demographic characteristics and patterns of infectious diseases compared to other patients and therefore require adapted management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tran Duc Anh Ly
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Thi Loi Dao
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Pneumology Department, Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Viet Nam
| | - Van Thuan Hoang
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Family Medicine Department, Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Viet Nam
| | - David Braunstein
- Department of Medical Information, APHM, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Univ, EA 3279 - Public Health, Chronic Diseases and Quality of Life - Research Unit, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Brouqui
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Lagier
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Parola
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Gautret
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.
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Risk factors for unplanned hospital admission in a specialist homeless general practice population: case-control study to investigate the relationship with tri-morbidity. Br J Gen Pract 2020; 70:e406-e411. [PMID: 32424048 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp20x710141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 'Tri-morbidity' describes the complex comorbidity of chronic physical illness, mental illness, and alcohol and/or drug misuse within the homeless population. Poor health outcomes of homeless people are reflected by the higher rate of unplanned hospital admissions compared with the non-homeless population. AIM To identify whether tri-morbidity is a risk factor for unplanned hospital admissions in the homeless population. DESIGN AND SETTING A case-control study of patients who were registered with a specialist homeless GP surgery in Brighton (72 cases and 72 controls). METHOD Cases were defined as those who had ≥1 overnight hospital admission within a 12-month period. Controls were matched for demographics but with no hospital admission. The primary care record was analysed, and tri-morbidity entered into binomial logistic regression with admission as the dichotomous dependent variable. RESULTS The logistic regression analysis demonstrated that other enduring mental health disorders and/or personality disorder (odds ratio [OR] 3.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.56 to 9.44), alcohol use (OR 2.92, 95% CI = 1.42 to 5.98), and gastrointestinal disorder (OR 2.90, 95% CI = 1.06 to 7.98) were independent risk factors for admission. Tri-morbidity increased odds of admission by more than four-fold (OR 4.19, 95% CI = 1.90 to 9.27). CONCLUSION This study shows that tri-morbidity is an important risk factor for unplanned hospital admissions among the homeless population, and provides an interesting starting point for the development of a risk stratification tool to identify those at risk of unplanned admission in this population.
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Di Lorenzo R, Montardi G, Panza L, Del Giovane C, Saraceni S, Rovesti S, Ferri P. Retrospective Analysis of Factors Associated with Long-Stay Hospitalizations in an Acute Psychiatric Ward. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2020; 13:433-442. [PMID: 32547274 PMCID: PMC7245472 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s238741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the longest hospitalizations in an acute psychiatric ward [Service of Psychiatric Diagnosis and Treatment (SPDT)] and the related demographic, clinical and organizational variables to understand the factors that contribute to long-stay (LOS) phenomenon. The term “long stay” indicates clinical, social and organizational problems responsible for delayed discharges. In psychiatry, clinical severity, social dysfunction and/or health-care system organization appear relevant factors in prolonging stays. Patients and Methods We divided all the SPDT hospitalizations from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2015 into two groups based on the 97.5th percentile of duration: ≤36 day (n=3254) and >36 day (n=81) stays, in order to compare the two groups for the selected variables. Comparisons were made using Pearson’s chi-square for categorical data and t-test for continuous variables, the correlation between the LOS, as a dependent variable, and the selected variables was analyzed in stepwise multiple linear regression and in multiple logistic regression models. Results The longest hospitalizations were significantly related to the diagnosis of “schizophrenia and other psychosis” (Pearson Chi2=17.24; p=0.045), the presence of moderate and severe aggressiveness (Pearson chi2=29; p=0.000), compulsory treatment (Pearson Chi2=8.05; p=0.005), parenteral or other route administration of psycho-pharmacotherapy (Pearson Chi2=12.91; p=0.007), poli-therapy (Pearson Chi2=6.40; p=0.041), complex psychiatric activities (Pearson Chi2=12.26; p=0.002) and rehabilitative programs (Pearson Chi2=37.05; p=0.000) during the hospitalization and at discharge (Pearson Chi2=29.89; p=0.000). Many demographic and clinical variables were statistically significantly correlated to the LOS at our multiple linear and logistic regression model. Conclusion In our sample, clinical illness severity and need for complex therapeutic and rehabilitative treatments were associated with prolonged psychiatric hospitalizations. Understanding this phenomenon can have not only economic but also clinical, ethical and social relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Di Lorenzo
- Psychiatric Intensive Treatment Facility, Department of Mental Health and Drug Abuse, Az-USL Modena, Modena 41122, Italy
| | - Giulia Montardi
- School of Specialization in Psychiatry, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena 41124, Italy
| | - Leda Panza
- School of Nursing, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena 41124, Italy
| | - Cinzia Del Giovane
- Head of Statistics and Methodology, Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), Bern, Switzerland
| | - Serena Saraceni
- School of Specialization in Psychiatry, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena 41124, Italy
| | - Sergio Rovesti
- General and Applied Hygiene, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Modena 41125, Italy
| | - Paola Ferri
- Nursing, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Modena 41125, Italy
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Farrell SJ, Dunn M, Huff J. Examining Health Literacy Levels in Homeless Persons and Vulnerably Housed Persons with Mental Health Disorders. Community Ment Health J 2020; 56:645-651. [PMID: 31858332 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-019-00525-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Health care use is high in persons who are homeless and vulnerably housed, but their health literacy (ability to read and understand health information) is often not known. The purpose of this study was to determine health literacy rates in a Canadian population of homeless and vulnerably housed individuals with mental health disorders. Higher levels of health literacy were associated with being housed, higher levels of education, non-psychotic mental health diagnoses and lower levels of drug use. This suggests that health literacy may be a potential barrier for accessing and utilizing health services and information for vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J Farrell
- Royal Ottawa Health Care Group, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - Michael Dunn
- Canadian Mental Health Assoc. Ontario, 180 Dundas Street West, Suite 2301, Toronto, M5G1Z8, Canada.
| | - James Huff
- Royal Ottawa Health Care Group, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4, Canada
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Abstract
BACKGROUND National efforts are underway to reduce hospital readmissions. Few studies have used administrative data to provide a global view of readmission among people experiencing homelessness, who often utilize multiple hospital systems. OBJECTIVE To examine the 30-day hospital readmission rate and factors associated with readmission following discharge among homeless Medicaid members in Massachusetts. METHODS We analyzed medical record and Medicaid administrative data for 1269 hospitalizations between 2013 and 2014 for 458 unique patients attributed to Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program. Generalized Estimating Equations were used to investigate factors associated with readmission. RESULTS Of all hospitalizations, 27% resulted in readmission, more than double the average national Medicaid readmission rate. Leaving against medical advice was associated with increased readmission, while having a Health Care for the Homeless primary care practitioner was associated with reduced readmission. Among the most frequently admitted individuals, being discharged to medical respite care was associated with reduced readmission. CONCLUSIONS To break the readmission cycle, health care providers serving homeless individuals could focus on assuring access to medical respite care and extending outreach efforts that increase primary care engagement. This may be especially important for accountable care systems, as safety net providers increasingly assume financial risk for patients' total cost and quality of care.
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Nielssen O, Jones N, Foung H, Nielssen A, Staples L, Large M. Comparison of homeless clinic attenders with and without psychotic illness. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2020; 54:195-201. [PMID: 31823644 DOI: 10.1177/0004867419893426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM To compare the characteristics of clinic attenders in inner city homeless hostels with and without a diagnosed psychotic illness. METHOD A cross-sectional study of homeless people attending psychiatric clinics in three inner city homeless hostels over a period of 8 years. The demographic characteristics, comorbid conditions, pathway to homelessness and pattern of homelessness of clinic attenders with a diagnosis of psychosis were compared with those who were not known to have psychotic illness. RESULTS 2389 homeless people attended one or more of the clinics in the 8 years of the study, of whom 1222 (51.2%) had a diagnosed psychotic illness, mostly schizophrenia. Those with psychosis were less likely to have been married (23.2% vs 45.5%), were less likely to have worked for more than a year (47.4% vs 74%) and were more likely to have been discharged from hospital to homelessness, to receive the Disability Support Pension (72.2% vs 38.3%), or be under financial management orders (12.0% vs 2.6%). Homeless people with psychosis were also more likely to have been homeless for more than a year, sleep in the open, and were less likely to have a current substance use disorder, problem gambling or a history of early life or recent trauma. A high proportion of those with psychosis (29.5%) had been released from prison to homelessness and a surprising number (22%) reported the loss of public housing tenancy. CONCLUSION The results demonstrate the homeless with psychotic illness are particularly disabled and disadvantaged, often have multiple comorbid conditions, and many have been unable to maintain public housing tenancy. The inability of many of the homeless mentally ill to maintain public housing tenancy suggests the need for more supported housing to help the chronically homeless with psychotic illness maintain tenancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olav Nielssen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia.,St Vincents Mental Health, St Vincents Hospital Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Naidene Jones
- Matthew Talbot Hostel Clinic, Inner City Homeless Service, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hayden Foung
- Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Lauren Staples
- Mindspot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew Large
- Department of Psychiatry, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick., NSW, Australia
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Residential moves and its association with substance use, healthcare needs, and acute care use among homeless and vulnerably housed persons in Canada. Int J Public Health 2018; 64:399-409. [PMID: 30382287 DOI: 10.1007/s00038-018-1167-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the relationship between housing instability, as measured by the number of residential moves, with problematic substance use, unmet healthcare needs, and acute care utilization. METHODS A cohort of homeless or vulnerably housed persons from Vancouver (n = 387), Toronto (n = 390), and Ottawa (n = 396) completed interviewer-administered surveys at baseline and annually for 4 years from 2009 to 2013. Generalized mixed effects logistic regression models were used to examine the association between the number of residential moves and each of the three outcome variables, adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS The number of residential moves was significantly associated with higher acute care utilization [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.25; 95% confidence interval (CI) CI: 1.17-1.33], unmet healthcare needs (AOR 1.14; 95% CI: 1.07-1.22), and problematic substance use (AOR 1.26; 95% CI: 1.16-1.36). Having chronic physical or mental conditions and recent incarceration were also found to be associated with the outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Housing instability increased the odds of all three poor health metrics, highlighting the importance of stable housing as a critical social determinant of health.
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Predictors of length of stay in psychiatric inpatient units: Does their effect vary across countries? Eur Psychiatry 2018; 48:6-12. [PMID: 29331601 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies in individual countries have identified inconsistent predictors of length of stay (LoS) in psychiatric inpatient units. This may reflect methodological inconsistencies across studies or true differences of predictors. In this study we assessed predictors of LoS in five European countries and explored whether their effect varies across countries. METHODS Prospective cohort study. All patients admitted over 14 months to 57 psychiatric inpatient units in Belgium, Germany, Italy, Poland and United Kingdom were screened. Putative predictors were collected from medical records and in face-to-face interviews and tested for their association with LoS. RESULTS Average LoS varied from 17.9days in Italy to 55.1days in Belgium. In the overall sample being homeless, receiving benefits, social isolation, diagnosis of psychosis, greater symptom severity, substance use, history of previous admission and being involuntarily admitted predicted longer LoS. Several predictors showed significant interaction effects with countries in predicting LoS. One variable, homelessness, predicted a different LoS even in opposite directions, whilst for other predictors the direction of the association was the same, but the strength of the association with LoS varied across countries. CONCLUSIONS The same patient characteristics have a different impact on LoS in different contexts. Thus, although some predictor variables related to clinical severity and social dysfunction appear of generalisable relevance, national studies on LoS are required to understand the complex influence of different patient characteristics on clinical practice in the given contexts.
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Stenius-Ayoade A, Haaramo P, Erkkilä E, Marola N, Nousiainen K, Wahlbeck K, Eriksson JG. Mental disorders and the use of primary health care services among homeless shelter users in the Helsinki metropolitan area, Finland. BMC Health Serv Res 2017. [PMID: 28637455 PMCID: PMC5480200 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2372-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Homelessness is associated with increased morbidity, mortality and health care use. The aim of this study was to examine the role of mental disorders in relation to the use of 1) daytime primary health care services and 2) after hours primary health care emergency room (PHER) services among homeless shelter users in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area, Finland. Methods The study cohort consists of all 158 homeless persons using the four shelters operating in the study area during two selected nights. The health records were analyzed over a period of 3 years prior to the sample nights and data on morbidity and primary health care visits were gathered. We used negative binomial regression to estimate the association between mental disorders and daytime visits to primary health care and after hours visits to PHERs. Results During the 3 years the 158 homeless persons in the cohort made 1410 visits to a physician in primary health care. The cohort exhibited high rates of mental disorders, including substance use disorders (SUDs); i.e. 141 persons (89%) had a mental disorder. We found dual diagnosis, defined as SUD concurring with other mental disorder, to be strongly associated with daytime primary health care utilization (IRR 11.0, 95% CI 5.9–20.6) when compared with those without any mental disorder diagnosis. The association was somewhat weaker for those with only SUDs (IRR 4.9, 95% CI 2.5–9.9) or with only other mental disorders (IRR 5.0, 95% CI 2.4–10.8). When focusing upon the after hours visits to PHERs we observed that both dual diagnosis (IRR 14.1, 95% CI 6.3–31.2) and SUDs (11.5, 95% CI 5.7–23.3) were strongly associated with utilization of PHERs compared to those without any mental disorder. In spite of a high numbers of visits, we found undertreatment of chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Conclusions Dual diagnosis is particularly strongly associated with primary health care daytime visits among homeless persons staying in shelters, while after hours visits to primary health care level emergency rooms are strongly associated with both dual diagnosis and SUDs. Active treatment for SUDs could reduce the amount of emergency visits made by homeless shelter users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Stenius-Ayoade
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland. .,National Institute for Health and Welfare, Mental Health Unit, Helsinki, Finland. .,Department of Social Services and Health Care, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Peija Haaramo
- National Institute for Health and Welfare, Mental Health Unit, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elisabet Erkkilä
- Department of Social Services and Health Care, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Niko Marola
- National Institute for Health and Welfare, Mental Health Unit, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kirsi Nousiainen
- Department of Social Research, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Johan G Eriksson
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland.,National Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Chronic Disease Prevention, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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