AMA adopts new policy on housing for homeless

(HealthDay)—The American Medical Association (AMA) calls for stable, affordable housing, without mandated therapy or service compliance, in order to improve housing stability and quality of life among individuals who are chronically homeless.

According to the 2017 Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress, more than 550,000 people experience homelessness each night in the United States. An estimated 35 percent stay in unsheltered locations.

"It is important that we take steps to improve the health and well-being of people who are facing chronic homelessness, and focusing on housing first may help do that," AMA Trustee Ryan J. Ribeira, M.D., said in a statement.