Press Release: Oregon Addresses Homelessness and Healthcare Challenges
Oregon’s homelessness challenge persists, with only 0.5% of the population reported as homeless in 2023, yet this group significantly impacts the healthcare system. According to data from the Oregon Health Authority, homeless individuals represented over 1% of emergency department visits since 2019. In 2024, they accounted for 3% of inpatient stays, and their hospital visits tend to last longer – an average of 9.4 hours in emergency rooms compared to 5.3 hours for the general population.
Lisa Wilson, a research analyst at the Oregon Health Authority, highlights that longer stays for homeless patients are attributed to a confluence of factors: elevated rates of mental health issues, untreated physical conditions, and logistical difficulties in discharging individuals who lack safe recovery environments.
This issue is not confined to Oregon. A 2019 national study found that 84% of unsheltered homeless individuals reported having a physical health condition, a stark contrast to 19% of sheltered individuals. Mental health and substance use disorders were prevalent in three-quarters of unsheltered respondents.
In response, Multnomah and Clackamas counties are implementing “street medicine” programs aimed at offering healthcare directly to unsheltered individuals, thereby reducing emergency service reliance. These initiatives focus on preventative care, addressing health conditions before they escalate into emergencies.
Community paramedic Jamie Breunig is actively engaged in providing necessary health care, reflecting the commitment to improving lives and outcomes for Oregon’s homeless population. As challenges continue, further innovative approaches are crucial in tackling the intersection of homelessness and healthcare to foster a healthier community.
For more information on this pressing issue, visit The Oregonian/OregonLive.
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