Challenges of managing diabetes while homeless

Abstract

Objective: This study investigated structural challenges that homeless individuals in Baltimore face in managing diabetes and how social services interact with these challenges. Background: Homelessness is associated with poor heath, and diabetes is of increasing concern. Poor health contributes to heavy use of emergency departments, placing enormous financial burden on the healthcare system. Methods: Qualitative data were collected with 15 interviews from individuals gathered from Healthcare for the Homeless Baltimore. Findings: Findings emphasized instability in diet and medication storage as well as competing needs that divert precious resources. Difficulties are exacerbated by the low density of grocery stores and a primary healthcare system limited in effective scope. Conclusion: In order to manage their diabetes, participants showed perseverance, employing strategies to overcome challenges. Social services are able to reduce the effects of some difficulties, especially in medication access and healthcare access, but also have opportunities to more effectively address challenges. Findings suggest that the structure of social services would be more effective as a cohesive, cooperative network to aid clients manage complex conditions in challenging circumstances.