Housing Support Coming in November October 17, 2024 Starting in November, IHN-CCO will help some members with paying rent and utility bills. Housing is considered a “health-related social need,” or HRSN. These are basic things people need to stay healthy, like housing, food and utilities. Alicia Bublitz, Social Determinants and Transformation Manager for IHN-CCO and Samaritan Health Plans, said that helping with these needs is “bold new territory.” “Health care is finally recognizing that these things really do affect people’s health,” Bublitz said. “That is really what we’re trying to address here.” How Does This Make A Difference? According to a study published last month in Health Affairs Scholar, meeting needs like food and housing makes a big difference in positive health outcomes. They are not usually connected with other medical benefits. Researchers found the average return on investment was 50% for housing programs and 85% food programs. Investment in housing after a hospital discharge, emergency housing, eviction prevention and other interventions were included in the study. IHN-CCO knows that help with housing is critical to healthy communities. Our HRSN Housing supports are a strong step in this direction. Who Can Get Help? To get housing help, IHN-CCO members must meet these requirements: They must have an IHN-CCO plan that covers both medical and mental health care. They must be in one of these situations: Released from jail, a mental health facility or have been involved with child welfare in Oregon. They are houseless or could lose their home. They are moving from Medicaid-only to Medicare and Medicaid plans. They must also: Have a home with a written lease. Need help staying in their home. Be at risk of losing their home. Sometimes, certain health conditions might need to be checked. Learn more about HRSN qualifications. What Help Will Be Offered? Earlier this year, IHN-CCO started helping members with things like air conditioners, heaters and backup generators for medical devices. Starting in November, housing help will include: Rent and utility payments for up to six months. Changes to homes, like adding handrails or ramps. Help with moving, applying for housing or preventing eviction. Talking to landlords. In January 2025, nutrition support will also be offered, including healthy food boxes, cooking lessons and help applying for food benefits. Bublitz said that even if people don’t qualify for HRSN, they can still get help through other programs. “This is one more tool in our toolbox to support people,” she said.
