The use of eHealth interventions among persons experiencing homelessness: A systematic review

Abstract

Objective eHealth interventions are being developed to meet the needs of diverse populations. Despite these advancements, little is known about how these interventions are used to improve the health of persons experiencing homelessness. The aim of this systematic review was to examine the feasibility, effectiveness, and experience of eHealth interventions for the homeless population. Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted along with forward and backward citation searching to identify relevant articles. Results Eight articles met eligibility criteria. All articles were pilot or feasibility studies that used modalities, including short message service, mobile apps, computers, email, and websites, to deliver the interventions. The accessibility, flexibility, and convenience of the interventions were valued by participants. However, phone retention, limited adaptability, a high level of human involvement, and preference for in-person communication may pose future implementation challenges. Conclusions eHealth interventions are promising digital tools that have the potential to improve access to care and service delivery. eHealth interventions are feasible and usable for persons experiencing homelessness. These interventions may have health benefits by augmenting existing services and if implementation challenges are addressed. Further evaluation of the effectiveness of eHealth interventions is needed before widespread implementation. Those with lived experience should also be engaged in developing and evaluating these interventions.

The role of homelessness community based organizations during COVID‐19

“…Congregate areas in which clients may have previously accessed internet services such as public library space may be temporarily closed during the pandemic. When virtual services such as e‐health are used, they should be carefully designed to ensure their effectiveness—for example, by integrating peer support systems into these remote and virtual services (Polillo et al, 2021). In addition to internet‐based services, phone services may also be a way to engage with clients, especially in providing mental health services (Schueller et al, 2019).…”

Effectiveness of eHealth Self-management Interventions in Patients With Heart Failure: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

“…End-user acceptance of eHealth products is the key to a successful eHealth program, which is influenced by many factors, although eHealth usability and user training seem to be more important. eHealth products need to improve the understanding of the design and development process from the user’s perspective, and focus on developing detailed representations of the user’s needs and wants [ 70 - 72 ]. Furthermore, the process of eHealth interventions is complex, which requires active participation, cooperation, and familiarity with the associated processes by all involved [ 11 ].…”

“…End-user acceptance of eHealth products is the key to a successful eHealth program, which is influenced by many factors, although eHealth usability and user training seem to be more important. eHealth products need to improve the understanding of the design and development process from the user's perspective, and focus on developing detailed representations of the user's needs and wants [70][71][72].…”

Coping during the COVID‐19 pandemic among young adults experiencing homelessness and unstable housing: A qualitative study

“…These could include finding new ways to maintain an exercise routine, developing new hobbies, and strategies to continue participating in meaningful activities such as work and school. The COVID‐19 pandemic offers opportunities to explore the expansion of services, particularly mental health services through telehealth options, including telephonic services for those with minimal internet access (Polillo et al., 2021 ).…”