...Vulnerable Populations Vulnerable populations are social groups who experience health disparities as a result of a lack of resources and risk factors. In this paper the vulnerable group of the homeless will be discussed. The homeless population has many barriers that make obtaining healthcare a challenge. This paper will discuss the barriers and personal experiences with this demographic group. Vulnerable Population Definition Vulnerability and vulnerable populations are significant issues in today's health care system. Vulnerable populations are social groups who experience health disparities as a result of a lack of resources and increased exposure to risk. Vulnerable populations are those who are made vulnerable by their financial circumstances or place of residence, health, age, personal characteristics, functional or developmental status, mental or physical status (Goliath on Demand, 2011). The homeless is one of the many vulnerable population groups and is a very problematic issue currently. Barriers of the Homeless There are many barriers of the homeless however the one that stands out is the lack of access to health care. Many of the homeless live on the streets in dirty, filthy conditions which put them are risk for illness. They do not have the finical means or insurance to access preventive or acute care if needed. Many have chronic illness that go untreated and exacerbate and even cause death. Fear, embarrassment and mental disorders also can...
Words: 285 - Pages: 2
...Vulnerable Population Laura Nelli Nur 440 11/27/2011 Annette Guinther Vulnerable Population January 19, 2011 — Access to trauma care is limited for many vulnerable patients, according to the results of a cross-sectional analysis reported in the January issue of the Archives of Surgery. "Associated with the increasing closures of trauma centers is the growing concern regarding disparity in trauma access," write Renee Hsia, MD, MSc, from the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California–San Francisco, and San Francisco General Hospital; and Yu-Chu Shen, PhD, from the Graduate School of Business and Public Policy, Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. "Several studies have highlighted that access to trauma centers is not even for all populations, especially rural and urban groups. Another important aspect of access that has been less studied but suggested as a possible area for intervention is that of socioeconomic disparities in system-level access to care, specifically, race/ethnicity, income, and age." The study goal was to compare geographic access to trauma centers among various populations, including those that are traditionally vulnerable. Data from the American Hospital Association Annual Survey from 2005 were linked with Zip code–level data from the US Census in rural and urban communities, and a multinomial logit model allowed assessment of the odds of having difficult vs easy access to trauma centers for a given subgroup of vulnerable...
Words: 652 - Pages: 3
...Immigrants a Vulnerable Population BSHS – 302 September 20, 2011 Today, immigration policy and immigration is mostly debated at the extremes, between those who want no immigrants and those who want no borders, implying that immigration is an all-or-nothing proposition. It is clear that some type of policy and reform needs to be established. This writer will discuss and identify the causes of the problems or issues for this population. Focus will be placed on these topics: the history of the population, the nature of the social problems or issues experienced demographics and common clinical issues and intervention strategies, as well as a discussion of future interventions. Since, I live in a rural agricultural area that has been flooded with immigrants for the past decades; I have become very familiar with the Haitian and Hispanic populations. Finally, these groups are from different origins, recognized by various names, and all have taken broad paths to arrive in the United States. Immigration is the center of United States history. The earliest colonization of immigrants was established in the United States in the late 1500’s throughout the 1700’s. Additionally, with the exception of the Native Americans or Indians, evidence proves that America’s citizens are the product of immigration, whether they came as volunteers or they were forced (US Census Bureau, 2000). For example, the transatlantic slave trade created a lasting image of black men and...
Words: 1387 - Pages: 6
...Vulnerable Populations and Self-Awareness Paper Barbara D. Ross University of Phoenix Health Assessment and Promotion for Vulnerable Population NUR 440 Marcella Hardy - Peterson April 19, 2010 Vulnerable Populations and Self-Awareness Paper The social stigma of cigarette smoking has grown over the last 25 years. Many states have established anti-smoking legislation that prohibits smoking in public areas. This paper examines current social, economic and health related impact of the chronic smoker in today’s sociality. The author began smoking cigarettes as an enlisted Navy recruit, quit “cold turkey” when a severe morning cough convinced her that smoking cigarettes might not be conducive to optimum health. The conversion from smoker to non-smoker was not difficult. Cigarette smoking can be part of a social and cultural ritual. Tobacco use became popular in the United States in the 1800’s. Chewing tobacco was the method of use for the early American pioneers. In 1880, James Bonsack, created a machine that rolled tobacco in paper. The creation of the cigarette machine increased the cigarette production and revolutionized the tobacco industry. The health concern of long termed cigarette smoking came to the forefront in the mid-twenthth century. The CDC estimated in 2005, that 20.9% of all U.S. adults, were current cigarette smokers, 80.8% smoked daily and 19.2% some days. The highest prevalence of ethnic smokers...
Words: 1066 - Pages: 5
...Vulnerable Populations in Current Events As the cold winter months approach so does another cold and flu season. Individuals, communities and the nation itself must prepare in advance for the possibility of the flu striking home. Especially susceptible are vulnerable populations unable or unwilling to provide themselves the necessary care to prevent getting the flu. Or caring for themselves in the event they do get the flu. Vulnerable populations are individuals, families, or communities ho lack the necessary resources or capabilities to protect their own health. These “populations” are vulnerable because of factors such as socio-economic resources, limited financial means, age, gender or, limited knowledge of the English language. Women, children or the elderly are especially vulnerable The flu is an extremely contagious disease passed from person to person. A society or community ill prepared or failing to act in a timely manner in regards to vulnerable populations will only tend to increase the risk of infection for all people by increasing the number of people can spread the disease (Hutchins, Truman, Merlin & Redd, 2009). Implementation of programs to provide vaccinations to vulnerable populations may help to prevent an outbreak of the flu or at least stem the tide in the event of an outbreak. In the facility that I work, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, we have implemented such a plan. We provide free flu shots to low income families and children. All...
Words: 350 - Pages: 2
...Vulnerable Populations Complete the following assignment of the total 100 points for this module and submit this in Blackboard assignments. You will need to utilize the following chapters (31-38) in the Stanhope and Lancaster book to assist you with this assignment. Name: Trevalla Eggleston__________________ Date: _04/11/2013__________________ I. Complete the following activities which will count for a total of 50 points 1. Complete the following table. (Type your answers into the table.) (10 points /.5 each) |Vulnerable Population |Common Health Problems |Identify Health Strategies to improve health | |Poor and Homeless |HIV/AIDS; substance abuse;depression;COPD;Musculoskeleral|Preventative services related to homelessness | | |problems; malnutrition; tuberculosis; mental/psychiatric |include providing adequate housing, education | | |illness |on proper dieting, shelter, and free or | | | |affordable health care. | |Pregnant Adolescents |Low pregnancy birth rates; sexual transmitted infections |Provide services for adolescents that are | | | |pregnant. Provide...
Words: 3032 - Pages: 13
...A Vulnerable Population NUR/440 9/22/14 A Vulnerable Population Introduction A vulnerable population is a group of individuals who are disadvantaged. A vulnerable population can include ethnic minorities, race, decreased income children, uninsured, the homeless, and the elderly, those with specific diseases, unhealthy, mentally ill, and chronically ill. The disadvantaged individuals can include residents who live in a rural area and have barriers accessing healthcare. Vulnerability can be enhanced by ethnicity, sex, race, age, and other factors including the absence of source of care, income, limited insurance coverage. There are social factors that can interfere with healthcare and health such as housing, poverty, and inadequate education. There are three categories of health domains that make up a vulnerable population. These categories are physical, psychological, and social. Physical needs include, chronically ill, high-risk mothers and infants, disabled, HIV-infected individuals. The Psychological domain includes those who are chronically mentally ill and suffer from schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or have a history of substance abuse, alcohol abuse, or suicidal. The social realm includes individuals who are living in an abusive environment with abusive families, immigrants, refugees, the homeless. A large vulnerable population is sexually active adolescents. There are many risks and an increasing need for education. Demographics ...
Words: 1594 - Pages: 7
...Vulnerability for Haitian Population to Access Healthcare in South Florida A M NUR/440 December 9, 2013 Vulnerability for Haitian Population to Access Healthcare in South Florida The purpose of this paper is to project the experience on the presented material to a group of co-workers in regards to bringing awareness to the Haitian community and healthcare issues they face. In reference to the brochure presented, it explained cultural variables between American and Haitian beliefs and religion as well as communication barriers and reasons behind it. The brochure also demonstrated why culture is put on such high value for the Haitian community and what disparities might they face with incompetent healthcare workers towards some of the issues faced and why it would be considered vulnerable. Data collected towards the outcome of the presentation as well as understanding of why this would be a barrier to healthcare was well received within the workplace. Concept of Vulnerability in Haitians “As a triple minority, Haitians face challenges as racial and ethnic minorities, as immigrants, and as individuals who experience poverty at disproportionate levels” (Belizaire & Fuertes, 2011, p. 95). Haiti is considered one of the poorest countries in the world according to Florida Times Union, (2010). Due to the earthquake in 2010, Haiti has lost majority of its economy and potential of growth, hence increasing the immigration of Haitians to South Florida. As healthcare providers...
Words: 1073 - Pages: 5
...Vulnerable population in the workplace: Diabetics and the homeless Amanda Otten NUR 4800 March 29, 2015 Deanna Radford Vulnerable population in the workplace: Diabetics and the homeless Homelessness is closely associated with poor health, working in a government run facility we encounter multiple patients with this socioeconomic status. Working with the homeless population presents challenges that alone could be managed if in a more stable environment. Diabetes becomes difficult to manage when a patient has no means to handle such a complicated disease. Along with common barriers the homeless deal with stereotypes and prejudice when trying to seek out help for their health care management. Workplace Experience Being one of the major government hospital in Phoenix the majority of our clients are homeless or live below the poverty level, but this does not exclude our patients from having stereotypes placed on them and maybe even accelerates it. When asked many coworkers stated they felt many homeless returning patients with diabetes were “non-compliant and had no interest in maintain a healthy life style.” There have been multiple occurrences when I have overheard fellow nurses question the reasoning for admitting a sick homeless patients when “they don’t care, it’s just a waste of our time.” Even while conducting research, I myself have asked this very same question and came to moments of understanding. We all understand being...
Words: 852 - Pages: 4
...Vulnerable Populations Nur/440 March 3, 2011 A vulnerable population is any person or group of persons considered susceptible, or at risk, to physical harm or illness (DeChesnay & Anderson, 2008, p.3). The elderly are vulnerable to many health care problems and violence (DeChesnay & Anderson, 2008, p. 3-4). They may feel as though they are not in a position to defend themselves any longer, feeling as if they are ‘no match’ for their abuser. Much elderly abuse comes at the hands of family members (Phelan, 2010). The elderly may not seek help as they may fear retaliation by the abuser or they may simply not know who to turn to for help. In addition, as the elderly patient advances in age, there is a possibility of Alzheimer’s or dementia affecting their judgment and recall. They may not remember the abuse from day to day or have difficulty verbalizing abuse. Other factors that may impede the victim from speaking out are shame and fear that the abuse won’t be kept confidential or be investigated once reported (Caple & Schub, 2011). For family dealing with the care of an elderly family member, the lines between abuse and dispute are blurred. Consider also, the frustration of a family member dealing with an elderly relative who suffers from dementia or Alzheimer’s. The behaviors that come with those illnesses can be enough to set a family member over the edge as they deal with wandering, repetitious habits, forgetfulness, etc. An untrained layperson/caregiver...
Words: 500 - Pages: 2
...Vulnerable Populations BSHS/320 The United States of America is the place known to many as the land of the free, home of the brave, and the place to start a better life. With any place that has good qualities, some have not so good qualities. The homeless population in the United States is at a staggering high, and many individuals are suffering because many lack employment/financial resources, housing resources, support from family and friends, and others negligence; such as natural disasters or fires. Homeless individuals may have no other choice than to live on the streets, trains, and alley ways to name a few places where homeless people seek shelter. The history of homelessness, social problems, demographics, common clinical issues, and intervention/future interventions will be explored to determinate how homelessness is caused and how it can diminish with time. Homelessness has been around for some time and is increasing with time. Homelessness was noticed soon after the Great Depression, which caused many people to lose his or hers home. “During the Great Depression in the 1930, many families were no longer able to afford their homes and It is thought that over two million people were homeless at this time and suffered severely from hunger and extreme poverty” (American History Of Homelessness, 2011). The Great Depression was an era of life where the stock market crashed and many where out of jobs and many lost their home. “The Great Depression began in October 1929...
Words: 1503 - Pages: 7
...Vulnerable Population in Current Events According to Urban Institute (2010), "Vulnerable populations are groups that are not well integrated into the health care system because of ethnic, cultural, economic, geographic, or health characteristics. This isolation puts members of these groups at risk for not obtaining necessary medical care, and thus constitutes a potential threat to their health” (para. 1). Vulnerability to my understanding leaves an individual, or group open to harm or injury. This includes levels of socioeconomic class and any identifiable barriers to wellness lead to vulnerability. Obesity worldwide has steadily been on the rise over the past two decades and continues to do so. Data collected in 2008 reports that estimated 1.5 billion adults worldwide are overweight and obese (children not accounted for in this estimate). It is projected by 2030 there will be an increase in the number to 2.16 billion adults worldwide. One report studied women between the ages of 18 to 49; to analyze the pattern in overweight, obesity, inequalities, and socioeconomic status (SES) in 37 countries between the years 1989 to 2007. Also taking into count was the countries’ gross domestic product (GDP). The study revealed that there is higher number of overweight and obesity in the countries with higher GDP versus lower GDP counties. (Popkin, Adair, & Ng, 2012). The wealthier countries had higher percentage of overweight and obese individuals. “GDP was positively related to a wealth...
Words: 479 - Pages: 2
...Vulnerable Populations Jennifer Maas NUR/440 August 11, 2011 Marie Fagan MN, RN Vulnerable Populations Vulnerable populations are social groups who experience health disparities as a result of a lack of resources and risk factors. In this paper the vulnerable group of the homeless will be discussed. The homeless population has many barriers that make obtaining healthcare a challenge. This paper will discuss the barriers and personal experiences with this demographic group. Vulnerable Population Definition Vulnerability and vulnerable populations are significant issues in today's health care system. Vulnerable populations are social groups who experience health disparities as a result of a lack of resources and increased exposure to risk. Vulnerable populations are those who are made vulnerable by their financial circumstances or place of residence, health, age, personal characteristics, functional or developmental status, mental or physical status (Goliath on Demand, 2011). The homeless is one of the many vulnerable population groups and is a very problematic issue currently. Barriers of the Homeless There are many barriers of the homeless however the one that stands out is the lack of access to health care. Many of the homeless live on the streets in dirty, filthy conditions which put them are risk for illness. They do not have the finical means or insurance to access preventive or acute care if...
Words: 486 - Pages: 2
...Vulnerable Populations in Current Events Paper Vulnerable Populations in Current Events Paper Vulnerable populations can be defined broadly to include any individual, group, or community whose circumstances present barriers to obtaining information or to access resources offered before, during and after a socio-economic and or life changing event. Additionally, it may include, but are not limited to: age; physical, mental, emotional, or cognitive status (CDC, 2014). In 2011, the American Hospital Association (AHA) Board Committee on Research (COR) examined emerging practices in effectively coordinating care for vulnerable populations of Medicaid beneficiaries. There are approximately 9.2 million Medicaid beneficiaries are dual eligibles – low-income seniors and younger persons with disabilities who are enrolled in both the Medicare and Medicaid programs (AHA, 2011). Barriers that may prevent these populations from obtaining needed services: Medicare and Medicaid dual eligibles are among the sickest and poorest individuals, and they must navigate both government programs to access necessary services. The barriers that may prevent these populations can range to in include economic status, their personal or family values, attitudes, culture, and life circumstances of these individuals and the communities in which they reside. CDC provides evidence that Medicare beneficiaries belonging to racial and ethnic minorities persistently experience an increasing disproportionate...
Words: 643 - Pages: 3
...Vulnerable Population Chronically Mentally Ill Mental illness is an illness that affects or is manifested in an individual’s brain and may impact how that individual thinks, behaves, or interacts with other individuals (Spirit and Associates, 2000). Mental illness can vary in severity from mild to moderate to server and then profound. Just because a person suffers from a mental illness does not mean that they can be pick from a crowd. They are normal everyday looking individuals. Mental illness is something that has been common in the United States as well as internationally. “An estimated 26.2 percent of Americans ages 18 and older or about one in four adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. When applied to the 2004 U.S. Census residential population estimate for ages 18 and older, this figure translates to 57.7 million people (Health, 2006-2012).” Mental illness is known to be one of the leading causes of American disabilities in the United States and Canada. Individual can suffer from more than one disorder at the same time. There may be one mental illness that is related to another and an individual may be diagnosed with both due to traits from one illness. Individuals who suffer from mental disorders are sometimes born with them or have developed them from life time events such as institutionalization, drugs, or alcohol. Some mental illness that individuals may suffer from are suicide, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, mood disorders...
Words: 1266 - Pages: 6
