Meeting the Needs of the Mentally Ill Homeless in Massachusetts-Based Emergency Shelters

摘要: A statewide survey (response rate = 79.5%) of the emergency shelters designed for homeless individuals was conducted in Massachusetts to determine prevalence serious mental illness among residents and extent which they received psychiatric services. An average 22%, ranging from 1% 70%, reported despite fact that 87% restricted admission those exhibiting severe behavioral problems. Nearly three-quarters providing some health services as part their program, 80% had established ties with professional agencies. Linkages these agencies greatly enhanced placement options mentally ill persons. When queried on most pressing community-based service needed ill, nearly two-thirds a need additional housing alternatives.