Why you should read this article:

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To read about the development of a nurse-led homeless health service in a general practice

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To learn about how a nurse-led homeless health service functions

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To recognise the benefits of a nurse-led health service for people experiencing homelessness

People experiencing homelessness have a significantly higher mortality rate than the general population. Easy and flexible access to healthcare services is paramount in reducing morbidity and mortality in this patient population. In Caerphilly County Borough, where 309 residents were known to experience homelessness in 2023, two nurses have created a nurse-led homeless health service at a general practice. In the first two years of its existence, the service has conducted 140 assessments. Most people seen at the service had not engaged with primary care services since starting to experience homelessness. This article describes how the nurse-led homeless health service was developed, how it works and what is has achieved.