The Importance of Healthcare Professionals in the Health of the Homeless

With the burden on the healthcare system anticipated to increase, exponentially, in the next few years, many public health agencies are looking for ways in which to manage the impending crisis. With the advancement of baby boomers into the age and retirement population, the need for healthcare professionals will profoundly increase.

Compounding this complication is the ever increasing need for physicians and healthcare professionals who can service the homeless. At present, in the United States, it is estimated that almost one million adults and children are homeless; a number that will increase as the baby boomers enter retirement.

Because mental illness can create, or develop from, a history of homelessness, many healthcare professionals struggle to face the obstacles in providing adequate care to this population of individuals. From complications with understanding diagnosis to accessing specialty services and use of prescription medications, the homeless crisis in the United States goes well beyond that of food and shelter and may well become a healthcare crisis for everyone.

If you are a medical profession, or considering a profession in healthcare, it is important to consider a career in the field that services those who are in need. While pediatrics, geriatrics and other specialties offer great rewards, servicing the homeless is probably one of the most rewarding, challenging and productive career choices one can make.

With a collaborative approach among physicians, healthcare support staff, social workers and psychologists, our homeless population will require medical services at a greater rate than any other population. Within this sector of individuals, you can choose to specialize in geriatrics or pediatrics as there will be significant numbers of children and elderly adults who will be in need by the year 2010.