Navigator program aims to keep homeless patients out of the hospital

NCT ID NCT04961762

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Unity Health Toronto Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a navigator program, where a Homeless Outreach Counsellor helps patients follow their discharge plan and connect with community services, improves outcomes for homeless adults after a hospital stay. Over 650 participants were randomly assigned to receive the navigator program or usual care. The main goal was to see if more people had a follow-up visit with a primary care provider within 30 days of leaving the hospital.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Navigator Program (case management by a Homeless Outreach Counsellor)
What this could lead to: If successful, this program could improve follow-up care and reduce hospital readmissions for homeless adults, pointing toward a scalable support model.
What could go wrong: This is a single completed trial; results may not apply to all regions or health systems. The program's effectiveness depends on local resources and staff availability.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CASE MANAGEMENT HOMELESS PERSONS HOSPITAL READMISSION PRIMARY CARE

Contacts and locations

Locations

St. Michael's Hospital

Toronto, Ontario, M5B1W8, Canada

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