Enhancing healthcare access for the vulnerable

The approaches of NHS Somerset’s Homeless Health Service offer pertinent insights for practice managers to enhance care strategies, navigate evolving healthcare landscapes, and address the distinctive needs of vulnerable groups within their communities

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on NHS England

Earlier this year, the NHS Somerset’s Homeless Health Service received the prestigious 2023 NHS Parliamentary Health Equality award for its collaborative efforts to “reduce health inequalities and prevent ill health in their community.” Laura Devlin, an inclusion and homeless health GP, sheds light on the service’s operations and the potential impact of the newly published Inclusion Health Framework.

A dedicated team for holistic care

The Homeless Health team, comprising inclusion health GPs and the Somerset Homeless and Rough Sleepers Nursing Service, collaboratively delivers holistic, person-centred care to those experiencing homelessness, Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities, and vulnerable migrants. This collaborative effort, funded by NHS Somerset and Somerset Council, focuses on overcoming barriers to accessing mainstream healthcare services.

Reaching those in need

The team’s proactive approach involves reaching out to individuals in various settings, including those sleeping rough, living in temporary accommodation, or seeking refuge in retreats and refuges. Referrals come from various sources, highlighting the importance of collaborative working with councils, charities, schools, and healthcare providers.

Importance of collaboration

Collaboration remains central to the success of the healthcare provided. The team’s association with The Roost, part of Yeovil Community Church, exemplifies this. A weekly healthcare drop-in session, embedded within a social drop-in offering various services, showcases the team’s flexibility and creativity in delivering care without scheduled appointments.

The team adopts a holistic approach, acknowledging that not every healthcare problem has a medical solution. They collaborate with other agencies to address broader issues around housing, finances, social isolation, and relationships. Advocacy for patients is a key focus, ensuring everyone is treated fairly and with respect.

Overcoming challenges and celebrating successes

While facing challenges like funding uncertainties and addressing stigma, the team has achieved significant successes. Building relationships, making vital diagnoses, improving health conditions, and aiding safe housing placements are among their accomplishments. They’ve navigated IT challenges, supported abstinence, and increased awareness of homelessness issues.

Supporting the NHS action on inclusion health framework

Laura Devlin welcomes the new NHS England framework for NHS Action on Inclusion Health, aligning with the key principles identified within it. The commitment to action, understanding the needs of inclusion health groups, developing the workforce, delivering integrated services, and demonstrating impact closely mirror the work led by the Homeless Health Service in Somerset.

As we navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare, especially for vulnerable groups, practice managers can draw insights from the collaborative and holistic approach of NHS Somerset’s Homeless Health Service. Embracing a commitment to action and understanding the diverse needs of patients, especially those from inclusion health groups, becomes crucial for narrowing health inequalities and enhancing the quality of care provided by general practices.