NCJ Number
136718
Journal
Journal of Adolescent Health Volume: 12 Issue: 7 Dated: special issue (November 1991) Pages: 561-566
Date Published
1991
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes the 4-year experience of a program in Portland, Oregon designed to deliver onsite general medical care to a street youth population.
Abstract
The Greenhouse, a drop-in center for street youth, is one of a number of agencies providing emergency and support services for this population. Sponsored by the Salvation Army and the Rotary Club and opened in 1984, the Greenhouse screens youth less than 19 years of age and provides meals and crisis intervention services. Once in the Greenhouse program, a youth may obtain services until 22 years of age. Overall, 64 percent are between 18 and 20 years old, and 60 percent are male. Charts of all patients evaluated at the Greenhouse clinic from 1985 to 1989 were reviewed. A total of 609 youth were seen whose average age was 16 years 9 months. During 1,895 visits, 2,086 diagnoses were made. Respiratory, dermatological, and gynecological problems represented 56 percent of all diagnoses. Pregnancy tests accounted for 38 percent of all procedures, 50 percent of all medications dispensed were either oral antibiotics or decongestants, and 17 percent of the visits resulted in referrals. Chart review revealed that street youth sought care for common medical problems. Problems related to substance abuse and sexually transmitted diseases were seen much less frequently than anticipated. Elements critical to the clinic's success included its onsite location, hours of operation when teenagers were using other services, close working relationships between clinic and center staff, the capability to perform a few simple laboratory procedures, and an onsite pharmacy. 26 references and 5 tables