Using a tool to measure return on investment in addressing health-related social needs

Issue: Health care organizations (HCOs) are seeking to integrate social services with medical care to promote optimal health outcomes for patients with complex needs. A lack of concrete estimates about the potential impact of social services for specific subpopulations can make it difficult for HCOs to contract with community based organizations (CBOs) to deliver such services. The Return on Investment (ROI) Calculator and related tools were developed to help provide such information.

Goals: Describe the utility and value of the ROI Calculator and related tools in helping HCOs and CBOs develop a business case for cross-sector partnerships to address health-related social needs.

Methods: Synthesis of observations and interviews with technical-assistance participants and providers.

Key Findings and Conclusions: The tools helped CBOs and HCOs explore opportunities for cross-sector partnership. Technical assistance helped level the playing field and advance readiness for partnership. Determining partner-specific ROI was helpful but not always necessary for CBOs to secure contracts with HCOs. In addition to cost savings from reduced utilization of health care, HCOs may consider other benefits of meeting health-related social needs such as improved patient experience and quality of life, as well as health plan member retention. Cross-sector partnership formation requires organizational commitment, engaged leadership, administrative resources, and perseverance.