Addressing Health Disparities and Promoting Health Among the Homeless Population in Los Angeles

QUESTION

In a paper, address the elements listed below. Include a minimum of four scholarly sources, current within 5 years, to support your work.

1. Provide an introduction to the paper.

2. Include a succinct description of the vulnerable population identified (HOMELESS POPULATION IN LOS ANGELES), a minimum of three variables that place the population at risk, and the identified health risk(s) or disparity that the population is at risk of experiencing.

a. Vulnerable population

b. Variables that place the vulnerable population at risk (minimum of three)

c. Health risks and disparities for which the population is at risk (minimum of one)

3. Identify one national population health goal or objective that relates to the identified risk or disparity (such as Healthy People or another national initiative). Propose one strategy for advanced nursing practice to collaborate at the local, state, or national level to advocate for the health of the vulnerable population and advance the Healthy People goal or objective that is identified.

4. Provide a conclusion to the paper.

ANSWER

Addressing Health Disparities and Promoting Health Among the Homeless Population in Los Angeles

Introduction

The homeless population in Los Angeles faces numerous challenges, making them a vulnerable group in need of focused healthcare interventions. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the homeless population’s health risks and disparities, along with identifying the variables that place them at risk. Additionally, we will discuss a national population health goal and propose a strategy for advanced nursing practice to advocate for their health and advance the identified goal.

Vulnerable Population

The vulnerable population identified in this paper is the homeless population in Los Angeles. Homelessness is a complex issue resulting from various socioeconomic, environmental, and health-related factors. These individuals lack stable housing, making them vulnerable to numerous health risks and disparities.

Variables Placing the Population at Risk

Socioeconomic Factors: Poverty, unemployment, and lack of affordable housing are significant variables placing the homeless population at risk. The inability to secure stable housing leads to a continuous cycle of vulnerability and poor health outcomes.

Mental Health Disorders: A high prevalence of mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, places the homeless population at risk. Lack of access to mental health services and resources exacerbates these issues.

Lack of Access to Healthcare: Limited access to healthcare services, including primary care, preventive care, and medications, further contributes to health disparities among the homeless population.

Health Risks and Disparities

One significant health risk the homeless population is at risk of experiencing is infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, hepatitis, and HIV/AIDS. Their living conditions, exposure to the elements, and lack of proper hygiene facilities increase the risk of contracting and spreading communicable diseases.

National Population Health Goal and Proposed Strategy

The national population health goal relevant to the identified risk is set by Healthy People 2030, which aims to eliminate health disparities and achieve health equity. To advance this goal, advanced nursing practice can play a pivotal role in advocating for the health of the homeless population at local, state, and national levels.

Proposed Strategy

To address the health disparities and promote health among the homeless population, advanced nursing practitioners can engage in the following strategies:

Collaborate with Local Homeless Shelters and Organizations: Partnering with local homeless shelters and organizations allows advanced nursing practitioners to provide health screenings, vaccinations, and health education to improve health outcomes.

Advocate for Policy Change: Advanced nursing practitioners can actively engage in policy advocacy to promote funding for affordable housing initiatives, mental health services, and access to healthcare for the homeless population.

Strengthen Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborating with social workers, case managers, and outreach teams can enhance care coordination and ensure homeless individuals receive comprehensive support.

Conclusion

Addressing health disparities among the homeless population in Los Angeles requires a comprehensive approach that includes advocacy, policy change, and interdisciplinary collaboration. By aligning their efforts with national population health goals, advanced nursing practitioners can play a significant role in improving the health outcomes and overall well-being of this vulnerable population.