Taking advanced clinical practice to the streets: an evaluation of the benefits and challenges in homeless health care

Abstract

Homelessness in the UK continues to rise. People who are homeless are more likely to have poor health and die early, and face multiple barriers to accessing health care. Ten years have passed since the Marmot review recommended action on these disparities. In the context of significant health inequalities, advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) offer a different approach to homeless health care, providing complete episodes of care in complex situations and leading in integrating multiple agencies, service development and strategic advocacy. ACPs can use their expertise in this specialty to deliver education that raises awareness and reduces prejudice. Their research skills can identify gaps and expand the evidence base to improve practice at local and national levels. However, ACPs must promote their own roles, work closely with people with lived experience and be supported by their employers to embrace all four pillars of advanced clinical practice for the full benefits to be realised.