SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Missed Identification of Homelessness in Subsequent Encounters Despite Prior Documentation in the Electronic Medical Record

Missed Identification of Homelessness in Subsequent Encounters Despite Prior Documentation in the Electronic Medical Record

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This study examined whether documentation of homelessness in one healthcare encounter improves recognition in later encounters. Using the Homeless Management Information System and electronic medical records in Washington, DC, researchers reviewed 813 emergency department (ED) visits and 220 hospital admissions among 702 adults with homelessness-related records. They looked at whether homelessness was correctly documented during up to the first two ED visits and first two admissions, and whether that identification persisted in the next encounter.<br /><br />Results showed that prior identification did not reliably carry forward. After a sentinel ED visit, patients correctly identified as homeless were recognized again in 63.86% of second ED visits and 90.91% of second admissions, a significant difference. After a sentinel admission, correct identification persisted in 81.25% of second admissions but only 54.05% of second ED visits. These findings suggest that homelessness documentation is inconsistent across settings, especially between ED and inpatient care.<br /><br />The authors conclude that homelessness is often underrecognized despite prior chart documentation, which can undermine discharge planning, care coordination, and referral to community resources. They recommend more effective screening and better EMR documentation in a location that is easy for all providers to access.

Asset Subtitle

Mario A. Pita

Meta Tag

Author List Aditya Maddali, Catherine H. McDowell, Hanna Haile, Jillian S. Catalanotti, Kartik S. Patel, Mario A. Pita, Matthew A. Tovar, Megan Phan, Nathan Errampalli, Richard L. Amdur

Category Research

Concept Homelessness

Concept Hospital EMR

Concept Documentation

Concept Housing Status

Concept Homeless Management Information System

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences

Presenting Author Mario A. Pita

Track Other

Keywords

homelessness documentation

emergency department

hospital admissions

electronic medical records

care coordination

discharge planning

homelessness screening

healthcare encounters

underrecognition

Washington DC

Homelessness

Hospital EMR

Documentation

Housing Status

Homeless Management Information System