Attitudes of Homeless and Drug-Using Youth Regarding Barriers and Facilitators in Delivery of Quality and Culturally Sensitive Health Care

PROBLEM: Major barriers to care included a lack of culturally competent, accessible care despite the proximity of numerous health service agencies serving homeless youth. METHODS: A qualitative approach using semistructured focus groups was used to assess the perspectives of 54 homeless and drug-using youth, aged 18-24 years, recruited from streetand shelter-based settings. FINDINGS: Substance use was perceived as an adaptive response to psychological pain and survival on the streets as well as a health risk and barrier to care. CONCLUSIONS: Facilitators to care and suggestions for improved health delivery and quality of care included utilization of health mentors to assist in navigating the medical system, cultural competency enhancements, improved amenities in clinic wait areas, and expanded pharmaceutical services.