A Comparison of the Use of Physical and Mental Health Services by Homeless People With Severe Mental Health Problems in the Moncton Area Through the At Home/Chez Soi Program

Abstract

The At Home / Chez Soi demonstration project was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of the Housing First model in 5 Canadian cities. Using a randomized controlled trial design, this study evaluates the impact of this project on the use of health services by people with severe and persistent mental health problems and a history of homelessness in the greater Moncton area. The sample comprised 193 homeless persons, 95 in the control group and 98 in the treatment group. The results show a significant difference between the 2 groups only in the number of days of hospitalization, particularly in the psychiatric unit. Factors associated with the use of health services by people who are homeless and who have severe mental health problems need to be further investigated.