Housing Matters: Progress, Challenges, and 2025 Goals
2024 was a big year for housing stability. Across Medicare, Medicaid, and health plans, people are finally waking up to the importance of meeting members where they are. Housing isn’t just a roof—it’s the first step to understanding what members need. And speed? It’s everything. Quick action can mean the difference between stuck and stable. Some members need a full helping hand; others just need a nudge. This year, we’ve helped so many find their footing, and we’re ready to do even more in 2025.?Let’s keep building.
P.S.?Did we miss any big housing stories this year? Or something we should track? Let us know! And don’t forget to check your?Livability Index?to see how your community stacks up.
?? The Foundation
Housing Stability Is A Health Multiplier
Housing instability affects over 50% of navigation-eligible individuals, contributing to poor health outcomes and escalating healthcare costs. The AHC Model demonstrated that even partial solutions—paired with navigation services—led to a 3% drop in Medicaid costs ($54/month saved) and a 4% drop in Medicare costs ($116/month saved). Beneficiaries with access to stable housing showed fewer emergency visits and hospitalizations. Addressing housing first isn't just ethical—it's economically transformative, offering a scalable way to cut costs.
States Leading the Way: Pro-Housing Policies
States like Massachusetts and California are reducing housing costs by rewarding communities that increase building permits and adopt smart zoning reforms. Massachusetts granted $27 million to pro-housing cities, and California offers up to $2 million in funding. Pro-housing policies bring funding, growth, and affordability.
?? Room for Thought
Community-Led Programs Cut Health Costs and Improve Outcomes
Social determinants of health (SDOH), like food insecurity, housing, and transportation, account for up to 80% of health outcomes. Highmark Health’s Thrive18 initiative demonstrates the power of community-based solutions, engaging over 11,000 households and connecting 2,900+ households to essential services. By partnering with local organizations and focusing on SDOH, health systems can improve health outcomes, reduce emergency visits, and lower costs. Investing in community-driven solutions is not only effective—it's essential for long-term health improvement.
Delays in HCBS Access Hurt Dual-Eligible Individuals—Improved Coordination Can Fix It
Dual-eligible individuals often face delays accessing home- and community-based services (HCBS) due to complex eligibility and care planning processes. Streamlined coordination between Medicare and Medicaid could improve timely access, keeping people in their homes and communities. Action starts with advocating for better integration of these systems to ensure services like housing support and in-home care are accessible when needed.
Homelessness Won't End Until We Listen
Homelessness is often misunderstood, with many attributing it solely to laziness or addiction. In reality, factors like bad luck, trauma, and financial instability play a major role. The key takeaway? To truly help, we must listen to people experiencing homelessness, treat them with dignity, and address their unique needs with empathy and support. Action should focus on creating housing-first policies that prioritize relationships and individualized care.
?? The Fine Print
?? Posts We're Following