Unsheltered Homelessness and Health: A Literature Review

HIGHLIGHTS • Unsheltered homelessness is rising, particularly in the Western U.S.• We reviewed studies that compared health outcomes by shelter status.• Unsheltered populations have higher rates of physical and mental illness and substance use.• Unsheltered populations use health care less and often lack health insurance.• Longitudinal studies are needed to assess the causes of poor health among unsheltered persons.