Most center on risks that threaten the public, personal safety of the homeless, and equitably dispersing scarce resources. In rural areas, the availability of housing, much less affordable housing tends to be limited. Child safety and neglect is another major issue associated with homelessness. There also are complex issues surrounding domestic violence and abuse, and motivating adults to leave these often life-threatening situations. In rural areas, this issue becomes more complex associated with tight knit informal social structures coupled with threats to confidentiality and the scarcity if adequately prepared health professionals in mental health and social service disciplines.
Profound issues exist regarding the allocation of scarce health care resources and biotechnology.
This concern is particularly relevant in rural areas where there tend to be fewer of both coupled with a small tax base to support community health and social service infrastructures. In conclusion, there is no quick or easy solution to the prevailing problems surrounding homelessness in our nation. This article discussed their health-related issues and highlighted resources that can be found in many small communities to deal with the needy among them. Data are needed to determine if the rural population is similar or different from the urban homeless. Perhaps the greatest need is to identify and locate the rural homeless, who often remain invisible within their community and to health professionals who work there.