A qualitative examination of the challenges and needs during hospital discharge for people with lived experience of homelessness
Humphries, J., Canham, S. L., Bosma, H., Chaudhury, H., Mahmood., A., Custodio, K., Weldrick, R. (2025). A qualitative examination of the challenges and needs during hospital discharge for people with lived experience of homelessness. Journal of Social Distress and Homelessness, 1-13.
Abstract
People with lived or living experiences of homelessness (PWLEH) have higher rates of chronic and acute health problems and present to hospitals at a higher rate than their housed counterparts. Limited research has explored how PWLEH characterize their own discharge experiences. To improve hospital discharge processes and policies for PWLEH, this qualitative study conducted a thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 20 PWLEH in Metro Vancouver, Canada. Participants reported challenges to hospital discharge planning, including (1) stigma, discrimination, and negative interactions with hospital staff, (2) limited communication and collaboration with hospital staff, (3) rushed and careless treatment, and (4) losing shelter/housing while in the hospital. For effective discharge planning, reported needs included (1) opportunities for self-determination, (2) increased communication and information, (3) support from formal and informal networks, (4) a person-centered approach to care, (5) transportation upon discharge, and (6) increased affordable housing. Study findings highlight factors that influence hospital discharge experiences for PWLEH at the individual, interpersonal, and systems levels and suggest opportunities for improvements in discharge policies and practices.
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