Exploring perspective of homeless patients on their medicines.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Homeless patients and their medicines: exploring expectations, beliefs and behaviours.
IRAS ID
160327
Contact name
Vibhu Paudyal
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Robert Gordon University
Research summary
Homelessness takes many forms including rough sleeping, living in derelict buildings, temporary shelters offered by local councils as well as living in squats or sofa surfing. Homelessness is a widespread problem in Scotland and in Aberdeen. There were 1,191 households assessed as homeless in 2012-2013 in Aberdeen City in 2011-12 with similar numbers in Aberdeenshire. Despite the efforts being made by several charities, as well as the Scottish Government and Aberdeen City Council, to manage homelessness, it is estimated that it would take up to four years to provide housing to all of those currently on the waiting list. This suggests that homelessness will continue to remain a societal challenge for the foreseeable future.
Health status of the homeless is known to be lower compared to the rest of the population. Homeless population are known to demonstrate: higher prevalence of long term illnesses, infectious diseases drug or alcohol misuse, mental health problems, infectious diseases as well as low self reported health status The homeless population is also vulnerable to hazards relevant to living on the streets such as injuries, assault, exposure and skin problems.
Medicines play a crucial role in achieving desired patient outcomes including maintaining health, preventing illness, managing chronic conditions and curing disease. It is important that patients get the best outcomes from their medicines. However, there is a growing body of evidence which shows that medicines use is often sub-optimal in the general population, for example due to lack of adherence to the prescribed regimen. With regards to the homeless population, such sub-optimal use is more likely to be prevalent, negatively impacting on the achievement of desired patient outcomes. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society recommends that understanding patient experiences regarding the use of their medicines and ensuring medicines are used safely and effectively as key to achieving optimal benefits. The aim of this study is to explore homeless patients’ expectations, beliefs and behaviours towards their medicines.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
14/WS/1094
Date of REC Opinion
10 Sep 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion