ABSTRACT
Homeless individuals with unique situations and frequently with tuberculosis present to the emergency department. The practitioner faces a myriad of challenges that require a variety of assessment skills. Special attention needs to be given to assess mental health, substance use and abuse, residential history, victimization, and perceived health status. The behavioral model for vulnerable populations provides a framework for access to health services and a method for determining health outcomes of the homeless. It also outlines a format for factors used in assessing this population. Continued use of this model offers a template for healthcare for the homeless and use of the emergency department.