Managed alcohol programs for alcohol-dependent homeless people would save health dollars and cut public nuisance, experts say.

A program involving dispensing booze, just like medication, may be an answer to problems associated with homeless people battling chronic alcohol dependence.

They would be provided with housing, health and social services at a centre where they'd also be supplied with a standard drink hourly from 7am to 10pm, under one radical proposal.

A new report, Feasibility of a Managed Alcohol Program (MAP) for Sydney's homeless, has been prepared by St Vincent's Hospital and funded by the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education.

MAPs operate overseas but in Australia shelters, housing and other service programs targeting the homeless require abstinence, lead researcher Dr Nadine Ezard told AAP.

"Alcohol dependent homeless people experience higher rates of chronic illness, injuries and assaults, longer hospital stays, increased mortality, and higher levels of contact with the criminal justice system.

"Many also suffer from mental illness and alcohol-related brain injury."

The researchers reviewed the limited literature on MAPs, conducted a small survey of potential MAP users in Sydney and estimated the costs and savings in setting one up a pilot 15-person facility in the city.

They found the costs would easily be offset by medical, criminal justice and crisis accommodation savings, estimating a net benefit of at least $485,000.

Those surveyed were asked about a day shelter or a residential facility which either allowed bring-your-own alcohol or provided one drink every hour for 15 hours a day.

Most indicated a strong interest in a MAP, preferably for the residential model, being prepared to pay up to 90 per cent of their income where alcohol was provided.

Noting public nuisance and cost savings, Dr Ezard said one participant had taken part in a short-term withdrawal program 116 times.

MAPs could also prevent people from drinking "non-beverage alcohol" such as methylated spirits or hospital handwash.

"We are trying to start a dialogue, very much from a public health, harm reduction perspective, and put forward an alternative for policymakers."