Your health matters, no matter where you sleep tonight.
When you don’t have a stable place to call home, prioritizing your medical care can feel impossible and easily fall to the bottom of the list.
However, for people living with HIV, staying on treatment is the most important thing you can do. It’s needed to suppress the virus, protect your immune system, and feel strong enough to handle life's other challenges.
McGregor Clinic is here, providing healthcare for homeless individuals with the compassion and respect you deserve.
Managing HIV while homeless or underhoused is difficult, but with the right plan and support, it’s possible to stay healthy.
When you’re underhoused, your body is under more stress due to exposure to the elements, lack of consistent sleep, and nutritional gaps. For those living with HIV, these factors can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.
Prioritizing your care suppresses the virus and gives you the strength to handle daily life.
Consistent healthcare for homeless patients helps prevent small health issues from becoming major emergencies.
You might feel like dealing with HIV can wait until you find housing. But the truth is, your health is your greatest asset in getting back on your feet.
When your viral load is undetectable, you’re less likely to get sick from opportunistic infections. You have more energy to manage social services, attend housing appointments, and take care of yourself.
By prioritizing your health, you’re protecting your future.
We understand the reality of your situation. Managing a chronic condition requires stability, and that’s exactly what is missing when you’re underhoused.
Common barriers include:
Despite these hurdles, managing HIV while homeless is a priority for us. Your housing status should never determine health outcomes.
You don't have to have everything figured out to take care of yourself today. Here are practical underhoused health tips and strategies to help you manage your HIV care.
Your medication is your lifeline. If you carry it with you, try to keep it in a nondescript container to avoid drawing attention.
Use a waterproof bag or a digital "cloud" account to store copies of your ID, insurance cards, and recent lab results.
If you lose your physical bag, having a digital copy can speed up your care at a new clinic or hospital.
If you don't have a clock, link your medication time to a daily habit that doesn't change.
Even if you don't take a shower daily, using hand sanitizer or wet wipes can prevent skin infections, which can be more serious for those with a compromised immune system.
Be honest with your doctor or nurse about your living situation. We’re not here to judge you. We’re here to problem-solve with you.
This is arguably the most important tip. Case management is about more than just medical care. Case managers can help connect you to housing programs like HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS).
They can also help you access the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, which provides a safety net for those who don’t have sufficient healthcare coverage.
We’re more than just a medical office; we’re a community pillar. We provide a safe haven where you can be yourself. Our services are designed to meet you where you are.
We provide:
Absolutely. Lack of housing is not a barrier to receiving high-quality medical care at our clinic. We use alternative ways to stay in touch with you.
Don’t wait until your next appointment. We can work with the pharmacy and insurance (or assistance programs) to get you an emergency refill.
Yes. We take a holistic approach to your health. We recognize that you cannot focus on your medical care if your basic needs for food and clothing aren't met.
Yes. We understand that homelessness often comes with trauma and stress. We can connect you with mental health resources as part of your holistic care plan.
Many people use a daily vitamin bottle to store their HIV medication to avoid unwanted questions. You can also ask your pharmacist for "discreet packaging" options.
We serve everyone regardless of their ability to pay. We can help you apply for the Ryan White program or other assistance to cover the cost of your care.
Tell your provider immediately if your medication requires a fridge. We’ll likely switch you to a medication that is shelf-stable so you don’t have to worry about refrigeration.
If it’s a life-threatening emergency, always call 911. For other health concerns, try to call our office or visit a local mobile health unit if one is nearby.
Your living situation doesn’t define your worth, and it doesn’t disqualify you from receiving top-tier medical care.
At McGregor Clinic, we see you. You deserve to be healthy, and we’re here to help you make that happen.
CTA: Let us help you stabilize your health.
Your health is our mission, no matter where you call home.
Disclaimer: We're passionate about sharing helpful insights and information with our community. Please remember, this blog is for educational purposes and should not replace a conversation with your personal healthcare provider. Your health is unique. Always consult a medical professional for any specific concerns or treatment. If you have questions or wish to discuss your care, McGregor Clinic is here to help.
