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The following is a summary of “Front-Line Insights Into the Social Determinants of Health in Housing Instability: A Multi-Province Study,” published in the November 2024 issue of Primary Care by Draper et al. 

Individuals with housing instability face major health inequities. Community organizations play a key role in addressing these challenges. 

Researchers conducted a retrospective study in 3 Canadian provinces, identifying key barriers to support and stable housing from front-line perspectives on social determinants of health (SDoH). 

They conducted 8 semi-structured interviews with front-line workers, including shelter staff and mental health nurses, across Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. They used thematic analysis to identify predominant unmet SDoH needs. 

The results showed that key factors perpetuating housing instability included limited social support, poor access to health services, low-income and employment opportunities, lack of transportation, gender, and race-based discrimination, and limited education and literacy skills. 

Investigators highlighted the need for a multi-system approach to address intersecting SDoH factors and overcome barriers to stable housing. They also emphasized the importance of further research and collaboration with front-line providers to address systemic challenges. 

Source: journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/21501319241292131