Perceptions of mobile and acute healthcare services among people experiencing homelessness

Objectives: This paper presents findings from our collaborative research on the perceptions and preferences of people experiencing homelessness regarding outreach nursing services.

Method: We conducted qualitative research using a critical ethnography approach.

Sample: A total of 15 participants were interviewed individually (n = 12 people experiencing homelessness) and in focus groups (n = 3 care providers). We also conducted direct observation.

Results: This paper focuses on one of the core categories that emerged from the data analysis "Perception of Health Care." This category emerged from the following three subcategories, which we will present in this paper: (1) Conflicting Relationships with Institutional Health Services; (2) Perception of Outreach Services; (3) Recommendations from Mobile Clinic Users.

Conclusion: There are a range of perceptions of health services among people experiencing homelessness. Some are satisfied with the care received in the public health system, while many have experienced dehumanizing practices. Overall, outreach services are a promising strategy to reach people who are not served by the traditional modes of care delivery. Based on our findings, we suggest several key practices to personalize and adapt healthcare services and foster inclusive environments to better serve people experiencing homelessness.