What's new in homeless health care? A no-jargon summary of the latest research

Delivering quality health care for homeless populations requires compassionate practice informed by the latest evidence. However, staying up-to-date on the growing field of homelessness research presents a considerable challenge for the busy clinician or administrator. Since 1985, there have been more than 6,500 papers relating to the health of people experiencing homelessness published in the medical literature. In the past 10 months alone, more than 80 such articles have been indexed in Medline and cover topics ranging from Housing First to chronic illness among homeless adults. In this workshop, 3 clinically-active physician-researchers will present a plain-language summary of selected scientific studies on the health of people experiencing homelessness that have been published since January 1, 2015. The presentation will focus on scientific contributions in the following domains of homeless health: 1) morbidity and mortality, 2) health care access and organization, and 3) housing interventions. Articles will be identified through systematic review of the medical literature and will be evaluated for inclusion based on standardized criteria, with an emphasis on methodological rigor, potential impact on the field of homeless health care, and relationship with the conference theme of "Working Together for Quality." The presenters will highlight the practical implications of each study and provide attendees with an annotated bibliography containing take-home points. The session will incorporate an audience response system to engage participants in active learning. The workshop is targeted to all individuals who work in a homeless health care setting. No expertise in research methods is required.