Resource Details

The HCH Community & COVID-19: Vaccines for Patients and Staff

Year Developed: 2020

Resource Type: n.a..

Primary Audience: Board of Directors Administrative Staff C-Suite (CEOs, CFOs, CIOs, COOs, CMOs, etc) Clinicians Enabling Staff Outreach Staff PCAs

Language(s): English

Developed by: National Health Care for the Homeless Council (See other resources developed by this organization).

Resource Summary: As COVID-19 vaccines become available, questions abound on how to immunize patients and staff of health centers that serve people experiencing homelessness. This issue brief outlines unique considerations for this vulnerable population.

Resource Details: Throughout this pandemic, Health Care for the Homeless programs (HCH), homeless service providers, and Continuums of Care (CoCs) have been working together in new ways to serve people without homes. This brief is intended to (1) assess the initial state vaccination plans as they relate to people experiencing homelessness, homeless service settings, and health centers; (2) identify the key factors for successful vaccination campaigns for both patients and staff; and (3) identify actions the larger homeless services community needs to take. Health care providers and homeless services providers will have different roles and responsibilities for vaccination campaigns, but effective partnerships will help ensure wider access to life-saving vaccines.

Resource Topic: Clinical Issues

Resource Subtopic: COVID-19, Health Equity, Community, Health, and Housing Partnerships.

Keywords: Community Engagement, Immunization, Infectious Diseases, Persons Experiencing Homelessness, Policies and Procedures.