Ecopol Project - Portland State University

Bridging the Gap: A Former Public Health Worker on Healthcare and Homelessness

An Interview with Jean Dentinger

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, yet for people experiencing homelessness, it remains one of the most significant challenges they face. In this interview, we sit down with Jean Dentinger, a former public health outreach professional, to discuss the real barriers unhoused individuals encounter when seeking medical care. From systemic hurdles to the personal struggles of building trust, Jean shares invaluable insights on what’s needed to bridge the gap between healthcare services and the people who need them most.

The full interview can be accessed and viewed with this link:  

https://youtu.be/Hce5Wi1ZO04

Understanding these challenges is just the first step. Providing healthcare to unhoused individuals isn't just about offering services, it’s about fostering trust, reducing stigma, and creating sustainable solutions. If you want to learn more or support organizations working on this issue, check out the resources listed at the end of this video. Together, we can advocate for a healthcare system that truly serves everyone.

Resources: 

https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/project-respond-effective-response-homeless-mentally-ill-police-and#:~:text=Project%20Respond%20is%20a%20crisis,urban%20core%20of%20Portland%2C%20Oregon.

https://www.samhsa.gov/communities/homelessness-programs-resources/

https://www.hhs.gov/programs/social-services/homelessness/resources/

https://healthcenter.multco.us/current-patients/find-more-support/mobile-clinic

https://outsidein.org/health-services/mobile/

https://centralcityconcern.org/health-care-location/mobile-health/