RECOMMENDATION(S):
ACCEPT the report from the Health Services Department regarding Health Care for the Homeless.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No impact. The HCH Project is funded through a Public Health Services Act Section 330(h) grant from the Health Resources Services Administration.
BACKGROUND:
Since 1990, the Health Care for the Homeless (HCH) Project has provided health care services to the homeless population through mobile clinics, as well as through the CCHS integrated ambulatory system of care, and the Behavioral Health departments. Primary health care services provided by the HCH Mobile Team include routine physical assessments, basic treatment of primary health problems such as minor wounds and skin conditions, respiratory problems, TB screening, acute communicable disease screening, and coordination and referrals for follow up treatment of identified health care needs. A significant portion of the homeless patients seen in the mobile clinics have chronic diseases, including asthma, hypertension, diabetes, and mental health/substance abuse issues.
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