The perspectives of homeless people using the services of a mobile health clinic in relation to their health needs: a qualitative study on community-based outreach nursing

Abstract

Background: Significant social and health issues are associated with homelessness. Negative experiences with the healthcare system are also frequent and cause people experiencing homelessness to avoid health services. Aims: The purpose of this study was to (1) explore participants’ health needs concerning outreach nursing services and (2) describe the perceptions and preferences of people who access this form of community-based intervention. Methods: We conducted a critical ethnography with semi-structured interviews of 12 people experiencing homelessness who receive the services of a nurse-led mobile clinic, and 60 hours of observation during the provision of these services. Results: Our results describe the perspectives of people experiencing homelessness in three main categories: (1) worrisome health and social needs, (2) non-use of healthcare and (3) what connects us to health services. Conclusions: Timely access to healthcare is an important issue for people experiencing homelessness. Nurse-led clinics meet needs that go far beyond health issues.