Healthcare for the Homeless
- Kai Ruiz
- May 15
- 2 min read
by Kai Ruiz
In New York City, many homeless people struggle to get the healthcare they need
Without a regular doctor or a safe place to rest, even small health problems can turn into serious emergencies. Hospitals are often too crowded, and some people feel judged or ignored when they try to get help. As the number of homeless people in the city rises, it’s getting harder for them to stay healthy or get better when they’re sick.
For many homeless New Yorkers, going to the doctor or hospital isn’t just hard — it can feel hopeless. “Last time I went to the ER, they asked for my insurance and ID, but I didn’t have either,” said a man who has been living in shelters around Manhattan for almost a year. “They told me to wait, and I ended up leaving before anyone even saw me.” Stories like his are common among the city’s unhoused population, who often face long waits, judgment from staff, and little support after being discharged. Without a stable place to recover, even treatable conditions can become life-threatening.
According to the Coalition for the Homeless, more than 100,000 people were homeless in New York City in 2023 — the highest number since the Great Depression. The group also reports that people without housing are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses like diabetes, asthma, and mental health disorders.
Social workers and healthcare providers who work with the homeless say the challenges go beyond just access to care. “Many of the people I work with have chronic conditions, but they don’t get regular treatment because they’re constantly moving between shelters and the streets,” explained an employee at a NYC homeless shelter. “Without stable housing, it’s impossible to manage illnesses like diabetes or hypertension. They might get medication once, but they can’t follow up or even store it safely.” Experts agree that lack of stability and follow-up care only deepens health issues, making treatment harder and more expensive in the long run.
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