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Organizing Health Services for Homeless People:A Practical Guide By Marsha McMurray-Avila published by the National Health Care for the Homeless Council, Inc., with support from the Bureau of Primary Health Care, 2nd edition 2001, 348 pages.The updated second edition of this practical guidebook continues to be an easy reference for communities or groups interested in starting a health care project to serve people who are homeless by outlining basic, but necessary steps. In addition, current HCH projects wanting to improve or expand services will find a wealth of ideas, resources and contacts. Since no one document could contain the universe of knowledge about running a health care for the homeless project, the guidebook is intended to complement other HCH resources. A recurrent theme is that although essential elements must be included in the design of an HCH project, there are many ways to accomplish the mission of meeting the medical, social and economic needs of people without homes. Material is organized in a user-friendly, modular format so that the guidebook may be read in its entirety or used selectively by referring to certain sections. Although frequent reference is made to the experience of federally funded HCH projects, the guidebook will be useful to those establishing a HCH project without federal funds. Part I of the guidebook begins with an overview describing the interaction of homelessness and health, how people become homeless, and who is most vulnerable. This section describes characteristics of those who become homeless, which leads to a general discussion of health problems related to homelessness. Obstacles faced by people who are homeless in getting help for those health problems are outlined. Part II describes how the federal HCH Program developed in response to the health problems and access barriers faced by people who are homeless. Part III covers basic recommendations related to planning, organizational structure and governance for an HCH project. Part IV discusses service delivery strategies based on the experience of existing HCH projects. Specific elements necessary for service provision are outlined for the following areas: Medical care, substance abuse services, mental health services, case management, outreach, dental care, respite services, and housing links. Part V offers ideas about tools that organizations need to operate effectively, including: strategic planning; resource development; fundraising; financial systems; information systems; staffing; cultural competence; quality improvement/quality assurance; and program evaluation. Part VI focuses on education and advocacy, two vital tools for maintaining the gains already made. As long as there are people without homes, we need to keep the national HCH Program viable and effective. Education and advocacy also increase our impact when working with others to ultimately end homelessness. The first edition of Organizing Health Services for Homeless People was mailed in 1997 to each HCH project's executive director and clinical director as well as project subcontractors. The new updated second addition is available from the National Health Care for the Homeless Council for $20.00, which includes shipping and handling. For information about how to order, see our Publications home page or write the National Council at P. O. Box 60427, Nashville, TN 37206-0427. |