Homelessness and secondary care: identifying service gaps and recommending solutions for an extremely vulnerable, multimorbid population
Supervisors:
Professor Sarah Johnsen, Centre of Homelessness and Inclusion Health (University of Edinburgh)
Dr Helen Eborall, Usher Institute (University of Edinburgh)
Dr Claire Mackintosh, NHS Lothian & Usher Institute (University of Edinburgh)
Dr Richard Lowrie, Centre of Homelessness and Inclusion Health (University of Edinburgh)
Summary:
People experiencing homelessness (PEH) are characterised by extreme levels of multimorbidity. They fare badly in secondary care services and often experience terrible clinical outcomes. This PhD aims to identify and develop recommendations for addressing gaps in secondary care that PEH fall through and, in turn, improve clinical outcomes for this vulnerable, multimorbid group. The successful candidate will have substantial scope to define the study’s focus and methods, with input from a PPIE group involving stakeholders from homelessness and healthcare sectors (including experts by experience). Potential methods might include: a literature review and evidence synthesis; mixed method analysis of secondary patient data; interviews with PEH and (statutory and third sector) professionals; and wider stakeholder consultation.
This project is suitable for a clinical researcher from all disciplines. It represents a unique opportunity to conduct research under the supervision of highly experienced academics and clinicians and inform policy/practice to redress inequalities affecting one of society’s most marginalised populations. The PhD candidate will benefit from the support of a vibrant community of postgraduate students, academic staff, and clinicians associated with University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Homelessness and Inclusion Health and Usher Institute, as well as local NHS and third sector colleagues.