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Module 6: Public Health Assessment
for Homelessness
Public health considers the impact of homelessness prevention methods on cost, morbidity, and mortality. In primary prevention, affordable housing and economic assistance programs can be utilized as prevention measures. These programs can be appraised by looking at
the reduction rates of homelessness, the increase in the numbers of stable housing, and the current economic well-being of the individuals and their families (Chen et al., 2022). Additionally, economic assessment may be in terms of cost-benefit analysis, indicating reduced healthcare costs, emergency service utilization, and social welfare expenditures.
In the case of secondary prevention, programs like fast re-housing and eviction prevention can be undertaken. Public health officials may assess these initiatives by monitoring the rate of successful housing placements, the decrease in eviction rates, and the impact on health
outcomes for individuals who receive early intervention. Besides, public health agencies may track the reduction in homelessness durations, improvements in mental and physical health outcomes, and the cost savings associated with preventing individuals from becoming chronically homeless.
In addition, tertiary prevention strategies like supportive housing programs and wraparound services are evaluated based on the long-term sustainability of housing stability. These programs can also be assessed by looking at improving general health outcomes and reducing mortality rates among chronically homeless individuals. Public health assessments may focus on measuring the decrease in healthcare utilization, improving mental health conditions, and the overall well-being of individuals receiving continuous support services.
Thoughtful Question
