Date of Graduation
Winter 12-13-2024
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Public Health (MPH)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
Department/Program
Public Health
Abstract
Mental health disparities among homeless and low-income populations in the United States highlight significant challenges in access and quality of care. This literature review explores the integration of mental health services into Mobile Health Clinics (MHCs) as a promising recommendation to address these disparities. I used various search engines, extracting 10 articles published from 2013 to 2023 focused on the U.S. MHCs show its effectiveness in improving healthcare access and quality of care, covering different services like mammography, reproductive health, COVID-19 testing, and diabetes care. Building on these successful models, this paper proposes extending MHCs to include mental health screenings, counseling, and psychiatric evaluations, emphasizing a patient-centered approach, community collaboration, and policy support to sustain these services. Despite challenges in funding sustainability and resource limitations, integrating mental health care into MHCs is a feasible way to improve public health outcomes and promote health equity among underserved populations. Future research and advocacy efforts are critical to advance this model and foster inclusive healthcare systems.
Recommended Citation
Wong, Tiffany Lynn, "Improving Health Equity: Integrating Mental Health Services into Mobile Health Clinics for Unhoused and Low-income Populations in the United States" (2024). Master's Projects and Capstones. 1736.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/1736
Included in
Community Health Commons, Health Services Research Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons
