Date of Award

8-9-2024

Document Type

Restricted Access Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Rachel Elbing

Abstract

Background: Homelessness is associated with elevated risks of mortality and morbidity due to infections, substance abuse, and untreated mental health conditions. Individuals experiencing homelessness often seek healthcare primarily through emergency departments, leading to increased hospital admissions and longer stays due to poor discharge planning. Medical respite care is a potential solution, providing a space for patients that are too ill for shelters, but not ill enough to stay inpatient. Purpose:The purpose of this research is to evaluate the impacts on the healthcare system when medical respite programs are available for patients facing homelessness. Methods: The current review was synthesized using data from peer-reviewed articles accessed through CINAHL, Google Scholar, and Augsburg University’s Lindell Library. Keywords included “Homelessness,” “Medical Respite,” and “Health Utilization.” Conclusions:The financial impact of medical respite programs was a recurring theme, highlighting their potential to alleviate the burden on the healthcare system. Various studies also showed that respite programs could reduce hospital readmission rates and overall healthcare costs by providing necessary post-discharge services. Long-term benefits such as improved continuity of care were also shown. Essentially, medical respite care can bridge gaps in care, improve health outcomes, and contribute to the effective management of healthcare resources when available for patients facing homelessness.

Identifier

SC 11.PAS.2024.Gbagba.P.A.

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