Public Health Among People Experiencing Homelessness during COVID-19

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic magnified organizational and universal issues adversely affecting health among many including those experiencing homelessness. Among homeless populations, the high-risk nature of COVID-19 challenged access to treatment, disrupts access to housing and security, and it aggravated social disparities such as employment loss, housing access and extended homelessness. This study looks at the need to identify and implement mitigating strategies to reduce and address communicable disease within shelter environments. This study utilizes staff and client surveys through Qualtrics to document the experiences of clients and staff of a homeless shelter in Greensboro during COVID-19 and when entering service delivery. The study gauged participant perceptions regarding the shelter’s public health response, their access to health and housing resources, and access to treatment. In addition, it identified the level of impact of the pandemic on shelter services and sense of safety. The study found that multiple intersecting factors influenced disease spread, such as, living conditions, treatment adherence, and risky behavior. This research shows that to adequately provide services, to ensure safety and reduce outbreaks, mitigating strategies such as onsite screening and access to treatment and care are essential. Data collected shows that method of service delivery to populations experiencing homelessness is an essential mitigating strategy and helps address risk and barriers within homelessness.