Safe & affordable housing: Social determinants of health

Health insurance providers recognize that the social determinants of health must be addressed in order to prevent and treat health care conditions. Housing remains one of the most complicated determinants to address, with several competing factors at play. Often, federal and state resources are narrowly defined for specific populations with strict eligibility requirements. Innovations in housing must be tailored to local needs – some cities may have a critical shortage of affordable housing while for others, the bigger issue may be the quality of the available housing.

Health insurance providers understand the direct connection between housing and overall health, and partner with organizations to provide members with more options. From investing in affordable real estate to expanding case management services to support people with housing needs, insurance providers are designing creative models to increase housing options for members in need. Successful, sustainable interventions will include public-private collaborations where federal, state, local, and community organizations work together to improve outcomes. As a part of their unwavering commitment to improve the health of all Americans, health insurance providers continue to collaborate across sectors to improve access to safe and affordable housing.