Almost half of a borough's homeless population to not have access to a GP, a report has found.
Healthwatch Waltham forest, an independent consumer group, found the homeless community faced several barriers when registering at a practice due to no proof of address or form of identification.
The report 'Talking with the homeless community in Waltham Forest' was conducted in partnership with drug and alcohol support service, Turning Point, and befriending service, PL84U-Al Saffa.
Focus group studies revealed there was a "lack of dignity, respect, and is some cases quality of care" by healthcare staff towards homeless people, however, some GPs showed a caring nature and some attendees were able to register at Oliver Road Polyclinic in Leyton.
However, some GPs did show a caring nature and some homeless people were able to register at practices, namely Oliver Road Polyclinic in Leyton, using a homeless shelter address.
As a result of the majority not being registered with GPs or having difficulty getting appointments, Healthwatch said the burden is being shifted on A&E services at Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone.
Those who had mental health, drug and alcohol-substance issues and attended A&E reported a less positive experience.
The report found: "Heavy use of A&E services by the client group was also found to be linked to the difficulties in accessing GP services and appointments.
"Episodes of stigma and lack of understanding were described alongside questionable instances of care and what patients felt was excessive and anxiety inducing use of security.
"This perceived stigma and lack of joined up care was attributed to the worsening of physical and mental health problems.
"Some wanting help identified resorting to jail in order to get well."
In terms of registering and appointments, Healthwatch heard from patients who had walked 15 miles to their GP to be told to return the next day, patients who had been "struck off" for no proof of address, but also people who did get support from GPs despite their homeless status.
Healthwatch Waltham Forest manager Jaime Walsh, said: "There are a range of challenges within the system in catering for local homeless people within the primary care setting and avoiding over use of A&E services.
"Despite these challenges, some GPs have been able to get it right and this should be shared more widely across the borough.
"It is hoped that the findings presented in the report will help commissioners and service providers find better ways to improve access to health services for this vulnerable group."
Healthwatch Waltham Forest manager Jaime Walsh
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